MPs' block vote

The new reality TV show, Tower Block of Commons, in which MPs spend a week living with families in inner-city estates, could have suggested a solution to one of the issues brought to light by the Westminster expenses scandal: the government could acquire these buildings as they become due for demolition and renovate them, turning them into one-bedroom flats. These would be practical, handy for Westminster and wholly and necessarily for parliamentary duties, just as the Green Book demands.

The government would retain ownership, and an MP would be allowed the use of one of these flats during his or her term of office, free of charge in lieu of "second home" expenses. This would save the taxpayer from funding mortgages on luxury townhouses and outrageous claims for decoration and maintenance and put a stop to the odious practice of "flipping".

WALTER J ALLAN

Colinton Mains Drive

Edinburgh