Labour MP Sparks Outrage Over £900 ‘Pet Rent’ Claim
Alright, let’s talk about something that’s got a lot of people shaking their heads. Imagine this—you’re paying your taxes, expecting them to go towards public services, right? Now, what if I told you that some of that money has been used to cover the rent for an MP’s dog? Yes, you heard that right.
Taiwo Owatemi, the Labour MP for Coventry North West, has claimed £900 in taxpayer money to cover the cost of her cockapoo Bella staying with her at her second home in London. This "pet rent" was reportedly a surcharge imposed by her landlord, and she successfully submitted the claim back in August 2024. And here’s the kicker—it’s not technically against the rules. That’s right. This expense was approved under the current system.
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Now, people are furious. Taxpayers’ money covering a pet’s rent? Many are calling it unfair, especially at a time when ordinary people are struggling with rising costs. Even within the government, there are voices saying this shouldn’t be happening. Security Minister Dan Jarvis has spoken out, saying that while Owatemi followed the rules, the rules themselves might need changing. He’s pushing for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) to take a closer look at this and see if MPs should really be allowed to claim pet-related expenses.
Critics argue that MPs already get their rent covered for second homes—why should the public foot the bill for their pets as well? John O’Connell from the TaxPayers’ Alliance put it bluntly: “No one begrudges a politician wanting a pet, but they should pay for the cost themselves.” And it’s not just watchdog groups speaking out—many members of the public see this as a misuse of funds, especially when cuts to benefits and public services are happening at the same time.
On the other hand, some MPs argue that they need accommodation support to work both in their constituency and in Westminster, and that housing policies should be fair to renters, including those with pets. But that still leaves the question—should the public be paying for it?
Owatemi, who regularly shares photos of her dog on social media, has not yet commented on the backlash. But with growing pressure and government ministers now calling for rule changes, this might just be the start of a bigger conversation about how MPs use taxpayer money.
What do you think? Should this be allowed under the current system, or is it time for the rules to change?
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