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Tories face expenses probes

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3rd July 2009

Two Conservative frontbenchers have rejected suggestions they improperly clamed parliamentary expenses.

Shadow chancellor George Osborne is to face a formal investigation into his expenses claims.

The parliamentary standards commissioner is to investigate the Conservative frontbencher's financial conduct in an inquiry which could last until the autumn.

The investigation will centre on Osborne's claims under the second homes allowance for a property in London during 2001-03, and subsequent claims for a mortgage on a Cheshire home.

Osborne's spokesman said: "George is relaxed about it and has always been very open in answering questions about his expenses."

Conservative peer Lord Hanningfield is also to be investigated for his expenses.

The House of Lords frontbencher claimed £100,000 over seven years for staying in London despite living just 46 miles from the city, the Daily Telegraph claimed.

According to reports, Scotland Yard is to investigate the peer's overnight expenses.

But Lord Hanningfield denied the claims, stating that the newspaper was launching a "vindictive campaign".

"I work extremely hard on the front bench and am satisfied that I can account for my expenses," he said.

The Lords transport spokesman is also leader of Essex County Council and has a full-time chauffeur which the local authority provides, paid for by the taxpayer.

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