Prospective MP launches pledges to local residents

In light of the recent expenses scandal, Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate Councillor Ann Haigh has made a series of pledges to the residents of Epping Forest if elected as their MP.

The Liberal Democrats recognised early on that the expenses system was deeply flawed, and were the only party to vote en masse to oppose a Tory MP's Bill to exempt MPs from the Freedom of Information Act in 2007. Local MP Eleanor Laing was absence for this vote. They also voted for MP's claims to be available to independent audit. Local MP Eleanor Laing voted against this.

More recently Ann Haigh joined another 55 prospective parliamentary candidates calling on the speaker to act on the independent commission on MP expenses or step down. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat Leader Nick Clegg set out his party's response at www.takebackpower.org.

Councillor Ann Haigh said: "The whole expenses system is totally flawed, it needs radical reform. MPs cannot think that it is business as usual. That is why I am making these pledges today to demonstrate that the residents of Epping Forest do not have to put up with the same old tired system. They deserve to expect more from their MP."

I pledge not to claim for a second home. Ann, like many of the residents of Epping Forest, who work long hours, uses the tube to commute into London. Their MP should be no different.

I pledge to publish any expense claim online on submission. A MP should be open and transparent.

I pledge to not employ any family members and to advertise all jobs in the local newspaper. Jobs should be open to all and gained on merit not on family ties.

I pledge to not take on any other paid employment while I am an MP. My sole objective would be to represent my constituents at Westminster.

I pledge to continue to live in the constituency. My grandfather and father were retail traders in the district and I have lived in the constituency for the past 40 years and will continue to as your MP.

I pledge to have a constituency office in the constituency. Residents have a right to have access to their MP in the constituency where they live.

I pledge to hold weekly surgeries in the constituency at different locations. Epping Forest is made up of many towns and villages. Their MP should be accessible.