Rob Wilson, the minister for civil society, has been criticised on the front page of a national newspaper after claiming 9p for a 350 yard car journey to visit a constituent and 60p towards the cost of maintaining his bicycle.
Metro reported today that Wilson, who is the Conservative MP for Reading East, has made more than 160 travel claims for under £1 since 2010, and claimed back more than £35,000 in travel expenses. Last year he claimed more than £8,000 in travel expenses.
But the minister, who earns almost £90,000 for his government role, said the expenses claims were reasonable because he commutes to London rather than staying over in hotels or renting.
Wilson said: "I do use my car to cut down the travelling time so I can visit as many constituents and local organisations in the time available.
"Many of my journeys are over fairly short distances of a few miles but with a number of visits each week, over a year the mileage does add up.
"I can see how small claims might look odd but it is important that all MPs stay connected with local people."
“I have never claimed a single penny in accommodation expenses despite late Commons sittings. However, as I do commute most days it does mean I incur parking and mileage expenses instead.
“Whilst some may wish me to walk or cycle home after arrival at Reading Station late at night, my constituents understand that would not be practical.'"
He has not broken any rules and the claims have been approved by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. Details of all MPs expenses are available using a search tool on the Ipsa website.
Shadow minister for civil society, Lisa Nandy, claimed £7,500 in travel expenses last year, mostly in train fares and parking charges from her constituency in Wigan. She made no claims under £1.
Earlier this year Wilson was petitioned to resign after calling a constituent a "bad loser" following the election. He has also been embroiled in a public dispute with the chief constable of Thames Valley Police.
Yesterday he was criticised by the RSPB and RSPCA after saying the public felt they spent too much time campaigning.
