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Labour was rocked today after the man tasked with cleaning up MPs' expenses attacked the Queen's Speech for ignoring the issue.
In a rare public criticism of the Government, Sir Christopher Kelly said he was “disappointed” that the package of Bills contained no commitment to enact his sweeping reforms of the corrupted system.
David Cameron used his Queen's Speech reply to tear into the Prime Minister for the absence of the issue. Suggestions that the Tories were somehow in collusion with Sir Christopher were denied, although it emerged that Sir George Young, shadow leader of the Commons, phoned the watchdog to inform him “as a courtesy” that Mr Cameron had raised the issue.
Tory party chairman Eric Pickles said: “The idea that Sir Christopher would be a Tory stooge is laughable. It is typical of the way the Labour Party seems to see those who criticise it as their enemies.”
Deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman hurriedly announced a U-turn on the Government's initial denial that there was any need to pass further laws on expenses. The Kelly report highlighted 11 technical legislative changes. She said: “I will need to reassure Sir Christopher Kelly that the things that he wants done will be done.”
Reader views (4)
The Queens speech is probably produced by the ruling communist party if Britain aka The labour Party.
- Dirk Diggler, Soho, London, 19/11/2009 14:59
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Gormless Brown and the Harperson execute so many U-Turns, it is no wonder they are both dizzy.
- Reuben Camara, Plot 1, Morecambe Compound, EUSSR, 19/11/2009 14:39
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Brown is wounded and weak and can only stay in power until the next general election with the support of his MPs and Peers. He cannot afford any upsets until then. Although Brown talks big he knows full well he dare not press the issue whilst he is still PM. The consequence - an open goal for Cameron who has shown the way on expenses right from the start. Game set and match to the tories I am afraid to say.
- Brian G, Norfolk Gorleston, 19/11/2009 11:40
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Talk is cheap !
- A Tax Slave, london, 19/11/2009 11:13
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