An excruciating moment after PMQs when the Speaker announced the appointment of Sir Ian Kennedy* as chair of the new IPSA expenses regulation body.

The announcement - and the fact that the professor will be paid up to £100,000 a year - was met by MPs with catcalls, jeering and laughter around the chamber. As Sir Ian was described as an “eminent” candidate, there were more hoots and jeers. At least one red-faced MP was jabbing his hands in the air with disgust.

This will not look good at all on television tonight.

* He chaired the inquiry into the Bristol Royal Infirmary scandal

November 4, 2009 12:46pm in UK politics | Comment