19.02.2007
The Scottish Parliament will tomorrow (Tuesday 20 February) publish online the final quarter year’s information on MSPs' expenses claimed during the financial year 2005/2006.
In keeping with the Parliament’s commitment to fuller disclosure of allowances expenditure, the move will complete the first whole year’s data to be published online in a searchable format.
Through internet access, members of the public will be able to view MSPs' claims and accompanying receipts in respect of allowances claimed while carrying out parliamentary duties.
The search facility was described in August last year by Scottish Information Commissioner Kevin Dunion as “the most comprehensive and transparent expenses system of any Parliament in the world”.
The first three quarters allowances information for 2005/06 are already available online. Quarter 4 will be added to the Scottish Parliament’s website at 9.15 am.
Background
The easy to use search tool allows the public to search for specific information by using any combination of four selection criteria:
- By selecting one or more MSPs.
- By selecting the allowance type; whether it is all allowances, some, or just one. This would include allowance types such as Edinburgh Accommodation, Members’ Support and Members’ Travel.
- By selecting the expenditure type claimed under each allowance type; all, some, or just one. This could include searching by motor mileage claims, utilities costs or rented accommodation costs.
- By selecting the relevant Claim Month or range of Claim Months.
Online information is not provided on matters such as personal security, bank details or data on third parties.