MPs must release extra-curricular earnings from today

Jul 1 2009 Heswall News

WIRRAL’S MPs must register any income generated from outside interests, including hours worked, from today.

Frank Field, Birkenhead’s elected representative, has come under particular scrutiny after it emerged the former minister holds a paid directorship with private health insurer, Medicash Health Benefits Ltd.

Ben Chapman, MP for Wirral South, Wallasey MP Angela Eagle and Wirral West MP Stephen Hesford - a barrister who has not practised since being elected - escaped the spotlight that followed some embarrassing expenses claims.

The crackdown has seen Gordon Brown announce any MP failing to properly declare their “extra-curricular” earnings could face a year in jail.

And the Senior Salaries Review Board (SSRB) said it would consider slashing the backbench salary - currently £64,766 - of anyone thought to be a part-time MP.

In the latest Commons register, Frank Field also declares his regular column for Pension Week, which he says nets him “up to £5,000”.

Mr Field is also a prolific writer of articles for a variety of national publications, as well as paid appearances on BBC radio.

The new rules comes into force today , but will not immediately trigger a flood of new information.

They are not retrospective, only requiring an MP earning after July 1 to declare that income, the nature of the work and the hours worked within 28 days.