 | 'There are currently plans to bring the House of Lords in line with the Commons, which can bar an MP from returning to the House after a jail sentence.' Iain Swanson, Scottish Political Editor in the Evening News, 24 th May 2006 |  |
| 'There are currently plans to bring the House of Lords in line with the Commons, which can bar an MP from returning to the House after a jail sentence.' Iain Swanson, Scottish Political Editor in the Evening News, 24 th May 2006 | |
SHAMED former Labour peer Mike Watson was today slammed after he confirmed he plans to return to the House of Lords following his release from prison.
Politicians said it was "outrageous" that Lord Watson, who was jailed for starting a fire at an upmarket Edinburgh hotel, will be allowed to retain his peerage.
The disgraced peer said he planned to return to the Lords and would resume claiming almost £400 a day in expenses.
Lord Watson was freed from prison yesterday after spending eight months behind bars.
When he returns to work, he can claim an attendance allowance of £192 a day, a £128 payment to cover overnight accommodation, and travelling expenses.
He said: "I have the right to go there and don't think there is anything wrong in that. I have a lot to contribute."
Liberal Democrat MSP Mike Rumbles said: "I think it is absolutely outrageous he should remain a member of the House of Lords."
There are currently plans to bring the House of Lords in line with the Commons, which can bar an MP from returning to the House after a jail sentence.
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