Wirral South MP Ben Chapman will stand down at next general election

May 27 2009 by Alan Weston, Wallasey News

BEN Chapman has announced he will quit Westminster over the expenses scandal.

The Wirral South MP has confirmed he will not stand again at the next general election.

It was reported Mr Chapman had reclaimed the interest payments on the full value of a mortgage despite paying off £295,000 of the loan.

The “phantom mortgage” meant he benefited by £15,000 over a period of 10 months.

He was given permission to do this by the House of Commons fees office.

Mr Chapman continued to declare his innocence after he announced his resignation last week.

The 68-year-old said: “It remains my position that I have done nothing wrong. The fees office has apologised for its incorrect advice and no loss to public funds has been established.

“However, there is simply too much pressure on my family.

“After reflecting on the harm done to my local party, as well as to my family and friends, I decided that I will be standing down at the next election.”