Guidance for Members of Parliament on publications funded from the Incidental Expenses Provision

Following our telephone conversation yesterday about the revised version (January 2003) of the above, I write to confirm that I have read this document and wish to use my IEP once or twice a year to cover the costs of distributing my Westminster Report, which as you will see gives news on what I have been doing in Parliament for the constituency and has no promotional material whatsoever.

As for the drafting, design and publication of the newspaper, this is paid for by the businesses themselves. The advertisements cover these costs and it is merely the distribution that will need to be covered by the IEP. For these reasons you will appreciate that I cannot imagine it would be appropriate for me to have to notify the Fees Office of income from advertising revenue or the need to make an entry in the Register of Members' Interests. I could, however, print a small note stating that the costs of writing and printing the newspaper are covered by Devon businessmen, but you will note that a statement is included on every page regarding publication and printing.

I should be glad of your advices.

1 April 2003