Douglas Ross cleared of wrongdoing over Moray MP expenses, alleged in the Sunday Mail after replacing David Duguid
DOUGLAS Ross did not break expenses rules in connection with his work as an assistant referee, according to Westminster’s expenses watchdog.
In a statement released yesterday, the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (Ipsa) said it was “satisfied” Highland and Islands MSP Mr Ross, Moray’s MP until parliament was dissolved on May 30, had acted within the rules.
After Scottish Conservative leader Mr Ross replaced David Duguid as Conservative candidate for Aberdeenshire North and Moray East, an article in the Sunday Mail claimed that he had funded travel and parking linked to refereeing work through the public purse.
Mr Ross strongly denied the claims, which were reviewed by Ipsa after the article was published.
Yesterday’s statement from the watchdog confirmed that, after reviewing the claims and meeting Mr Ross, “no further action is required”.
The Moray politician announced that he still stand down as party leader after the July 4 General Election, following his controversial U-turn on running for a Westminster seat and initial plan to continue sitting as both an MP and MSP.
He also confirmed that, if elected for the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat covering Keith and Buckie, he would resign from the Scottish Parliament.
An Ipsa spokesperson said: “We have reviewed Mr Ross’s travel claims, relating to the allegations made in the press, and met with him to discuss the issues that have been raised.
“Following this review, we are satisfied that the claims were within Ipsa’s rules and no further action is required.”
A Scottish Conservative spokesperson, speaking on Friday, said: “Ipsa have confirmed all of Douglas’ expenses claims were valid.
“His focus is on beating the SNP in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East where he’s spent the day speaking to local voters.”
