Sinn Fein may lose Westminster expenses.

Wednesday 30 June 10

Debate has arisen over payment to Sinn Fein members at Westminster who take an abstentionist policy and refuse to sit in the chamber.

The government will consult Northern Ireland parties regarding the paying of Westminster monies to Sinn Fein members.

The move comes after the DUP called on the Conservative Liberal Coalition to withdraw Westminster funds to Sinn Fein.

Speaking in a debate at Westminster, the Deputy Leader of the House, David Heath said there was no reason why Sinn Fein should not take their seats.

Sinn Fein have historically refused to take seats in Westminster on Irish Republican grounds and will oppose any plans that would lead to their allowances being withdrawn.

Before the election, the Tories said they would withdraw allowances from parties that did not take their seats, however earlier this month, the government said it was now a matter for a new independent watchdog.

DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds has argued that Sinn Fein MPs were "raking in thousands of pounds which they are not entitled to".

Despite claims from the DUP Sinn Fein MP Pat Doherty said that his party did not take its salaries and had agreed the current arrangements with a previous administration.