London: The leader of Britain's main opposition party charged taxpayers for sandwiches, chocolate bars and taxis for his staff, a newspaper reported on Thursday.
Conservative party leader David Cameron put the cost of sweet treats, including Maltesers, a Mint Aero, a Galaxy and a Caramel bar, on his parliamentary expenses tab, according to The Daily Mirror.
He claimed most of the snacks under administrative and office allowance, which is used to pay for office equipment, supplies and services for MPs and their staff.
However, the claims do not break expense rules as MPs are allowed to bill for "meals and subsistence for interns, volunteers or permanent employees working away from their main place of employment."
Among receipts seen by the newspaper was one for a 40p Mint Aero, "Beef 3.80 pounds" and a 45p Galaxy chocolate bar with "Veg 2.00 pounds."
Susie Squire, of the Taxpayers' Alliance, said: "It may be a nice idea to provide treats. But David Cameron's staff should pay for their own like ordinary taxpayers."
The report comes after a major political scandal in Britain over MPs' expenses, including those for second houses, maintaining moats and swimming pools and installing television sets.
IANS
First Published: Thursday, December 03, 2009, 16:55