MP Expenses ...

I've resisted writing down what I think about MP's expenses up to now, because I wanted to really consider what I thought and not write them down in a fit of anger.

Every day at the moment there seems to be a report about some MP or other (from any party) who appears not to have followed the system fairly or to have abused the system for self gain. I'm not defending any of these MPs, and I have been really upset and disillusioned by the whole thing. I think that all MPs need to claim some responsibility - whether they abused the system or not is irrelevant. The fact is they all supported the system - and again, I include all MPs in this. Some MPs are trying to claim a moral high ground, but I'm not convinced they can do that.

A week ago, I was dangerously close to giving up my party membership. I am a member of the Labour party and having reflected, I'm happy to remain a member. Why? Simply, what I know is this. The Labour party is made of many more people than the MPs in Westminster. The Labour party is made up of good people who largely represent the same values that I do. It's our job to ensure that the Labour party's message gets out.

What I am REALLY worried about is that people will use these upcoming elections as a protest against the establishment - I was tempted to be honest, but by doing this my worry is that it will allow the BNP in ... While it may pain people, I really think it's important to vote mainstream in these elections - it doesn't matter which party!! I'm voting Labour (like Eddie Izzard), but I'd really urge people to consider the impact that not voting for one of the major parties could have.