Labour MP uses taxpayers' cash for 'pet rent' to live with cockapoo in London

MP's controversial pet expenses spark outrage

A senior Labour MP, Taiwo Owatemi, is under fire for charging taxpayers £900 a year in rent to live with her cockapoo dog, Bella, in London. Owatemi, a government whip involved in pushing through £5 billion cuts to disability benefits, has faced criticism for the pet rent claim.

Disability rights campaigner condemns MP's actions

Hannah Campbell, a disability rights campaigner and Iraq War veteran who lost her leg in service, called the pet rent claim a "disgrace," highlighting the contrast between MPs' perks and benefit cuts for vulnerable individuals. She criticized the double standards and lack of leadership by politicians.

MPs' expenses watchdog defends pet rent claim

The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) defended the pet rent claim, stating that MPs are required to work in two locations and may incur additional costs for accommodation, including pet-related charges. However, the controversy surrounding Owatemi's pet expenses has drawn parallels to past MPs' expenses scandals.

Potential impact of disability benefit cuts

As part of the group enforcing the £5 billion cuts to disability benefits, Owatemi faces scrutiny for her pet expenses amid concerns about driving thousands of Britons into poverty. The government's impact assessment suggests that the cuts could push 250,000 individuals, including 50,000 children, into relative poverty.