MP’s sunshine breaks abroad, Cameron staying
Posted by Allen
More than half of Britain’s MPs took cheap breaks or not so cheap breaks abroad this summer, according to a survey that reveals the holidaying habits of the country’s politicians.
Parliament closed for its annual summer recess In July, with members of the House of Commons enjoying time away from Westminster until September 6th – while their counterparts in the House of Lords stay away even longer, not returning until October 5th.
And the first summer recess to take place under the tenure of the new coalition government is being marked by a new poll – the ABTA Parliamentary Holiday Survey.
Conducted by ABTA, The Travel Association (formerly known as the Association Of British Travel Agents), the study throws a light on how MPs spend their time off.
Of those who responded to the survey, 56 per cent said they would be holidaying overseas, while three-quarters of MPs intend to travel to cheaper short-haul destinations.
The poll also revealed a sharp disparity between the holiday plans of members of the Commons and their counterparts in the Lords.
A little under a third of members of the Commons – 30 per cent – claim to take just one holiday a year – compared to just 9 per cent of members of the Lords. By contrast, 41 per cent of peers take two holiday breaks a year, and 50 per cent take three or more.
The Mediterranean is revealed as the most popular holiday destination for members of both houses.
But while 56 per cent of MPs crossed the Channel, leading figures in both main political parties were due to be keeping the home fires burning.
David Cameron took a traditional seaside family break in Cornwall – and has reportedly told his Cabinet to avoid expensive foreign jaunts at a time when many Britons are continue to watch the pennies by holidaying in the UK.
David Miliband, one of the contenders for the leadership of the Labour Party, followed a similar line, and headed for Northumberland, commenting: “Northumberland is a beautiful part of Britain and I am really looking forward to exploring it with my family. The county’s stunning natural beauty, relaxing atmosphere and friendly people will provide a great backdrop for a family holiday.”
The survey named Scotland as the favourite spot for domestic breaks, among MPs
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