Fury as taxpayers facing £150,000 bill to re-cover MPs’ green benches at the House of Common

TAXPAYERS are facing a £150,000 bill to cover the MPs’ green benches at the House of Commons, we can reveal.

Officials are seeking a supplier of “leather hides” to “repair and re-upholster” seat-cushions and backrests.

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The contract for the work in the historic chamber, which is out to tender, would start next month and last five years.

It comes only six months after £80,000 of public cash went on removing 12 weeping figs from the atrium at Portcullis House, where MPs have their offices.

The trees, were replaced with tables and chairs.

John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance said of the bench work: “Taxpayers will be green around the gills at the cost of this regal refurbishment.

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“Parliament will cut costs when it comes to frontline services but is happy to splash out on Britain’s poshest benches.

“Politicians should be prioritising the comfort of taxpayers, not their own.”

The House of Commons said no funding had been approved, and there was no commitment to award the tender.

He said any budget would be “scrutinised” with “value for money always sought”.

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He added: “As custodians of a Grade I listed building . . . it is vital when repairs are needed that the materials provided are of a standard that fits within the nature of the building.”