Ruth Kelly's flood money: Ex minister put water damage to her second home on expenses even though she was insured

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 9:27 AM on 21st May 2009

Ruth Kelly claimed thousands for flood damage to her second home on parliamentary expenses despite being insured.

The former Cabinet minister insisted that she made an entirely legitimate claim after her constituency home was left under water.

The Bolton South MP, who has already announced she is stepping down at the next election, said she assumed the furniture involved was too old to be covered by insurance.
 

 
Ruth Kelly claimed flood damage to her second home on expenses even though it was insured

Ruth Kelly claimed flood damage to her second home on expenses even though it was insured

She admitted she had not checked whether she could have claimed on her policy for rebuilding work.
 

Miss Kelly, who quit as Transport Secretary last year, was already under fire for claiming more than £31,000 to redecorate and furnish her 'second' home.

She tried to claim £3,600 for a sofa, £2,355 for a dining-table and chairs and £2,000 for a plasma TV, but the claims were judged excessive and reduced.

It also emerged that Natascha Engel, Labour MP for North East Derbyshire, claimed thousands for furniture, champagne flutes and other household items.
 

She disclosed her own claims and is holding meetings for constituents to decide if she should quit.
 

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