Camden councillor is living in Arizona

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Philip Thompson, 26, went to the US to study for a PhD in American Politics last month.

But the Liberal Democrat councillor for Kentish Town has kept his position on Camden Council and is still claiming his £700 monthly allowance.

Mr Thompson moved to Tucson without telling his constituents and some political colleagues but has been backed by party and council leader Keith Moffat.

Speaking from the University of Arizona in Tucson, Mr Thompson said: "I never expected to have the opportunity to come here but it was an opportunity too difficult to pass up.

"There is no reduced service for people in Kentish Town. I have carried on with all my casework. I will not continue to do it if it is impossible."

There is no legal requirement for Mr Thompson to step down - councillors-must only attend one full council-meeting every six months.

A picture of him smiling is already on the university's website and he could be there for up to three years.

But residents are not as happy about the move. Kentish Town Traders' Association chairman Nick Mavrides said: "You need to be in the borough day in and day out - not emailing from half way across the globe. He either has to get back or get out."