MPs' expenses: Claims would shame dictator, police tell Jacqui Smith

London, May 14 (ANI): Senior police officers have told Home Secretary Jacqui Smith that MPs are enjoying expenses that would not look out of place in a "Third-World dictatorship". Members of the Police Federation of England and Wales criticized Smith as she defended the expenses and allowances for all public servants, saying they were necessary for them to work effectively, reports The Telegraph.

Steve Morley, of the Metropolitan Police, questioned why police allowances, from dry cleaning to extra cash for working on rest days, had been dropped. He said: "Can you explain for the benefit of my members, your electorate, why all our expenses and allowances have been taken away?" Morley added that some claims by MPs would be "jaw-dropping in a Third-World dictatorship let alone in the country of hope and glory".

His comments at the federation's annual conference were met with much applause.

Miss Smith, who admitted to having made a "big mistake" on expenses, said: "I think for people to be able to do their job they should get the expenses and allowances they need in all areas of public service. (ANI)