Appendix 2: Written
submission to the Committee from Jim Fitzpatrick, 2 September
2010
1. I appreciate the courtesy and professionalism
of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards and his staff
throughout this process and these proceedings.
2. My request for a hearing is based on two points:
a) An acceptance of being 'guilty' of a breach
of rules (para 55, page 19) in the immediate aftermath of the
expenses scandal carries potential stigma. The Commissioner acknowledges
there was money available in the Communications Allowance to cover
costs (para 57, page 19), and there was no attempt to misappropriate
or misuse public funds.
b) More importantly, at a time when we are under
the closest scrutiny and criticised by many (sometimes unfairly),
I believe it part of my duty to be proactive, rather than just
reactive. In terms of dealing with anti-social behaviour, I regard
trying to connect the local police Safer Neighbourhoods Team with
residents affected as part of my responsibilities (para 49, page
17).
3. Paras 41 and 42 on page 15 highlight that
the issue is one of interpretation, where the Director of Resources
confirms this to be the case.
4. Anything an elected politician does will be
perceived by some to be 'party political'. I contend the Police
would not be associated with any such activity. Para 81 (1), page
27, raises the key point for me: '…not in furtherance of
their party political or personal interests.' There was no 'Labour'
branding of or at these events. However, it was not only in furtherance
of constituents' concerns to get the ASB issue addressed, there
was personal interest, a) to reduce the pressure of casework on
my office; b) to be seen to be effective, efficient and in touch.
5. Para 82, page 27, invites the Committee to
'review and tighten' the rules. I believe this the key issue.
In the twenty-first century, should MPs be proactive or just reactive.
In Poplar and Limehouse, I believe my constituents expect more
from me, not less.
In conclusion, I wish to apologise for feeling I
needed to bring this matter in front of the Committee, and I will
fully accept the judgement that it will make.
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