MPs offered free lamps to brighten up expenses scandal

In an attempt to brighten up the lives of MPs who’ve been stung by the recent revelations on expenses, electricals firm RS Components has offered to supply MPs with free energy efficient lamps.

The offer comes after the Daily Telegraph illuminated the fact that MP David Willetts billed the taxpayer £115 plus VAT for workmen to replace 25 lightbulbs in his west London second home.

The Shadow Secretary of State for Innovation also put in an £80 claim to have his bathroom lights changed.

RS Electricals said Willetts could have 30 free energy efficient lightbulbs to stop him claiming at taxpayer’s expense.

The firm also offered a free energy efficient lamp to all MPs.

Neil Harrison, RS Electricals marketing manager, said: “We would be happy to speak with Mr. Willetts to provide the right energy efficient lamps for his home.

“Perhaps if every MP switched to energy efficient lamps further embarrassment on related expense claims could be avoided.

“The potential savings for tax payers on energy bills and maintenance would run into the millions over time.”

After a meeting this week with David Cameron, Willetts agreed to pay back the amount he’d billed the taxpayer for having his lightbulbs changed.

A Residents Association in Willetts’s constituency recently held a tongue-in-cheek raffle of 25 energy efficient lightbulbs.