Travelodge lends a hand to those struggling MPs

Never ones to miss an opportunity (particularly if it involves jumping on a marketing bandwagon) budget hotel chain Travelodge has written to the speaker of the House Commons to inform them of the savings MPs could make by forgoing their second homes and staying with Travelodge instead. The tongue in cheek plea, a side swipe aimed at the naughty parliament minister Mr McNulty who has claimed £60,000 since 2002 for his second house in his Harrow constituency, the same place his parents live. Tsk tsk...

But hope is here in the shape of a budget bedroom. According to Travelodge, the average cost per MP for their second home allowance is £17,693, but staying at Travelodge London Southwark Monday to Thursday nights whilst Parliament is sitting would cost a maximum of £10,065. You do the maths.

The group also suggests that MPs obtain a Business Account Card, to "secure further discounts" as well as being able to accumulate Argos Reward Points, which will allow them to "furnish their constituency homes without spending any further money".

Perhaps it should also offer budget porn in the hotel rooms for Jacqui Smith's husband? It certainly would be a Room with a View.