Madam, I believe it should be established as a basic principle that MPs do not gain financially from expenses, which should simply be about reimbursing legitimate and relevant expenditure for their work.

If I am fortunate to be elected as the next MP for Hereford, Ross and South Herefordshire our house in Hereford would immediately be designated as our first property - indeed family home - this is where my husband and I live. My daughter will attend our local Hereford school. I currently do not own or rent any other property. I understand that an MP requires a place to stay in London to do their work in the House of Commons and I believe expenses for such a property should be limited to claiming genuine running costs such as rent - certainly no mock tudor beams, swimming pool or moat maintenance. I also believe that the responsibility for setting claimable amounts and pay must be taken away from MPs, and handed to an independent body that commands public support.

Sarah Carr