SINN FÉIN has stated it is not renewing leases on two rented premises in London used by its MPs when on Westminster business.
The announcement comes following recent criticism over its claims of almost £500,000 (€580,000) in London accommodation allowances.
In May, the Sunday Telegraphreported that MPs Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness paid £3,600 per month in rent to an Irish landlord. A local estate agent estimated the cost should have been £1,400 per month.
The newspaper claimed that its other three MPs – Conor Murphy, Pat Doherty and Michelle Gildernew – paid £5,400 per month for a town house which the estate agent valued at £1,800 per month.
Sinn Féin insisted at the time it had not broken any rules by claiming expenses associated with its rented properties in London. It also denied inflating its expenses as claimed by the Telegraph.
Yesterday, Sinn Féin MP Mr Murphy said the party would not renew leases on the flats.
“The party has taken a decision not to renew these leases and instead our MPs will use hotel accommodation when in London on constituency business,” he said.
