The costs of food, drinks and decorations at MPs' Christmas parties can be put on expenses according to new guidance from the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA)

MPs are now able to put their Christmas party food and drinks costs on expenses for the first time.New guidance from the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), stated:

"MPs can claim the costs of food and refreshments for an office." However, alcohol is not included in the hospitality claim. Despite the new benefit for MPs, many people in office have rejected it. Labour MP Jess Philips wrote: "No one asked for this, no one I know will use it."She added: "I will throw a Christmas party for my staff, it will be in my home where I will cook and pay for all of the food and drink.

Once again I reiterate that there was no clamour for this from MPs and it's stupid. "Speaking on TalkTV, Conservative MPDavid Davis, said: "There are lots of things we have to spend taxpayers' money on in terms of providing offices and services and so on," he added. "I'm afraid Christmas parties seem to me a bit of a strange pick, particularly this year of all years."

Labour MP Chris Bryant, also said: "I don't know of a single MP who asked for this or intends to use it. It is totally inappropriate and I shall certainly not be taking it up."Those who do claim are being advised to consider the cost of living crisis and that their claims"should represent value for money, especially in the current economic climate".