‘Dry rot’ MP faces court on expenses

The former Labour MP who claimed for dry rot treatment on a home more than 100 miles from her constituency will be charged with fiddling her expenses by more than £60,000, prosecutors said.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Sep 2011, 07:00 BST

Margaret Moran, one of the last politicians investigated over the scandal, will appear before magistrates facing 21 charges relating to her parliamentary claims.

Moran, former MP for Luton South, will appear before City of Westminster Magistrates’ Court on September 19, the Crown Prosecution Service said.

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The Director of Public Prosecutions said there were no more parliamentary expenses fraud cases awaiting review.

Keir Starmer QC said “there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest” to bring criminal charges against Moran.

Moran, who has been suspended by her party, claimed more than £20,000 for the treatment of dry rot at her Southampton home.

She also faces six charges of forgery, where it is alleged that she submitted forged invoices.

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Of 10 files of evidence handed to prosecutors, seven cases have resulted in charges.

“There are no longer any cases to be considered by the panel,” Mr Starmer said.

“Margaret Moran now stands charged with criminal offences and has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice her trial.”

Moran stood down at the last election.

Related topics:LabourSouthampton