MLA expenses 'were not excessive'

Many MLAs claimed the maximum entitlement

Expenses claimed by assembly members are not excessive, the most senior offical at the assembly has said.

Director General Trevor Reaney was speaking after the assembly published expenses details for 2003 to 2008.

The assembly was suspended for much of that time, but many members claimed the maximum £48,000 office cost allowance which was then available.

Mr Reaney insisted that spending was not out of line with the devolved institutions in Scotland and Wales.

"It comes down to MLAs having the discretion as to how they best use that fund to serve their constituents," he said.

"Comparisons with Scotland and Wales show our MLAs spend much less than in those jurisdiction on this type of thing.

"They are public servants elected to serve their community, they are people of standing, they have some degree of discretion within broad guidelines and rules."

The money is used by assembly members to cover the cost of running offices, such as paying staff, rent, rates and the purchase of office equipment.

Mr Reaney said: "These are services bought for MLAs to serve their constituents - they could have alternatively chosen to employ staff which may have resulted in a greater cost.

We are learning from what's happening in other places and these things will improve over time Trevor Reaney More assembly expenses revealed

"They are providing the taxpayer with value for money."

The publication of expenses follows widespread concern over Westminster MPs' expenses claims earlier this year.

It also echoes moves by the Scottish parliament in a bid to improve transparency and accountability.

OFFICE COSTS ALLOWANCE 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008

Mr Reaney said current guidelines were being reviewed so more detail on expenses can be obtained.

"As a young parliamentary institution we are refining and improving our system. It's an MoT check rather than a major overhaul - we are learning from what's happening in other places and these things will improve over time," he said.

"For example, if we look at claims for a secretarial service, subject to the approval of the Assembly Commission, we will be looking for details of the number of hours, the hourly charge rate and the basis of the formal agreement or contract between the MLA and their party

"That sort of detail will enhance scrutiny."