Well intentioned but tedious in parts

A well intentioned piece of journalism, but some parts are far too sensationalised and tedious, which unfortunately dilutes the real scandals that are exposed.

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An insight into parliament's entitlement culture

This speaks as much to an underlying cultural disconnect between both houses of parliament and the public as it does to the specific issue of the financial behaviour and interests of members of parliament.


It's as even handed as the subject allows and, unlike other works on similar topics, doesn't seem to stray into political ideology, simply raising questions as to whether the current situation in our democracy is fit for purpose and calling on its readers/listeners to answer.

Note : there are many, many legal disclaimers in the audio. They're there to protect the author and likely are very necessary, but they do become a little laborious.

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Interesting but not revelatory

Well performed, good book. An important issue that requires investigation but not hugely revelatory. Worth a listen

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factual but overreacting

a good well researched book on the face of it, and while some of the information underlying principles are indeed very valid, such as conflicts of interest or lack of engagement, other parts are sensationalist and feels more like a witch hunt. One example is of an MP being recalled while on holiday in the USA who took a business class flight. The book makes it sound like he was on a jolly up which I doubt, as he was being recalled while on leave and did the whole return journey in a few days. Anyone who has done this journey will know it is not much fun, and then to be asked to turn up to parliament and make decisions that will impact the nation is no light matter.

Also some of the expenses that MPs claim, while some are truly outrageous, other like travel, accommodation and food are not so much on the whole. Yet they are made to be. A fact that is noted time and time again but glossed over in the argument is that some of these claims are made of the basis that the individual is working beyond 19:30 at night, yet this dedication is mute. In my industry it's a disciplinary offence to work an excessively long day and then drive home, to many people have been seriously injured and died as a consequence and it is right that this is the stance the industry should take.

Overall interesting but a little disappointing due to the desire to sensationalise when to be honest some of the deep underlying facts were enough to firmly close out the main issue this book was trying to make.

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Very good book loved it

narration was very good book was interesting not quite the scandal I was anticipating but demonstrates the attitude held by many politicians and the reason why all of us dislike politicians and why they are all so out of touch with everyday people.

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5 people found this helpful

Brilliant

Everyone should read this book. If you thought the media portrayal of the expenses scandal was bad then you don't know the half of it.

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Enough to make your blood boil!

If you thought you couldn't think any less of our politicians, then listen to this book and weep!
It is best to listen to the audiobook version of this document, as it will stop you from throwing it at the wall upon completion.
Well worth a listen.

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Excellently researched and presented

A huge amount of work and extensive research has been undertaken. It paints a gloomy picture of Westminster. Confirms the negative feelings that most of the people I know have of the U.K. Parliament. A self interested group of money focused elites with an entitlement attitude, low morals - complete disconnect and an uncaring attitude towards the realities and struggles of most people in the U.K. They dispose the ordinary people. Westminster - and it’s class- needs to be rubbed out completely- and totally rethought. Scots need to wake up, get out and govern ourselves.

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You need to read this

really enjoyed this book, I didn't think I would but I was pleasantly surprised . A great deal of research has gone into this and it shows, it also show how out of touch some MPs are! I do recommend it, not my type of book at all really, but the story is detailed and we'll told

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A dark heart indeed

This is clearly the result of a huge amount of work by the author. If you thought that politicians are unscrupulous, then even this will surprise you.

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