Golden pillows as well as wings for Eddie!!!

I posed a few questions here about Eddie McGrady, the SDLP MP for S.Down's travel expenses a few weeks back.

Eddie, quoted in the Daily Telegraph today:

"When in Westminster for parliamentary business, representing the constituents of South Down, I stay in hotels which I believe offers greater value for money for taxpayers than a second home,"

Good man...I think:

On one occasion, Eddie McGrady chose a five star boutique hotel which cost the public purse up to £315 a night. He also claimed thousands of pounds in "petty sundries" – most of which were refused. By contrast, some of his parliamentary colleagues found hotels in the capital for £100.

Mr McGrady, the Social Democrat and Labour Party MP for South Down, spent the majority of his nights in London at The Royal Horseguards hotel which overlooks the Thames and has recently been given a five-star rating. In 2007, rooms cost £250 a night.

One review said: "The Rubens prides itself on luxury. Sumptuously nestled close to St James's Park, the hotel offers all the peace you could wish for."

His most expensive claim was for the five-star boutique hotel 41 Buckingham Palace Road, where he was charged £315 on one night and £245 on another.

One description of the hotel said it "cleverly infuses abundant luxury with modern practicality. 41's exceptional club-like qualities will provide an atmosphere of warmth, comfort and superb service".

Nice.

(I'm also guessing there's a few squeeky bums up at DUP Control at the minute, no sign yet, of Mr Dodd's expenses making an appearance...)