Stourbridge MP faces watchdog probe following controversial Israel trip
Stourbridge MP Cat Eccles faces an official investigation by the parliamentary watchdog following a controversial visit to Israel.
The parliamentary commissioner is to investigate allegations that Miss Eccles was late entering details of the £2,600 trip - funded by a pro-Israeli group - in the register of members' interests.
Miss Eccles was criticised for pro-Palestine campaigners for taking part in the trip in March.
During the trip, Miss Eccles and other MPs were pictured with Palestinian and Israeli business leaders and Israeli politicians, including President Isaac Herzog.
The MP said she wanted to see the situation on the ground.
A spokesman for the MP said missing the deadline was due to an administrative error and there was never any attempt to conceal the trip.
Miss Eccles' spokesman said: “Due to an administrative error that has now been rectified, the registration of Cat’s trip to Israel missed the original deadline.
“The registration is available currently for all to see, and this was solved internally with the parliamentary registrar.
“Cat never sought to conceal the fact she had been on this trip, referring to her registered interest openly when speaking in the House of Commons chamber.
“Cat will be working with the parliamentary standards commissioner to assist in all aspects of their investigation whilst it occurs.
“The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards investigate any instance in which there is a suspected potential irregularity, and Cat will comply with whatever outcome is advised by the commissioner following the conclusion of this investigation.”
