Long-distance councillor stands down

A London councillor who claimed more than £16,900 in allowances while living in Glasgow for two years today resigned.

Neil Semple attended only one Lewisham council meeting in six after starting a job in Scotland in 2003. His claims worked out at over £2,800 a meeting.

Last week opposition members called on the Labour councillor for Lee Green to repay the cash. Mr Semple said today he had still "diligently" served the ward but was quitting for "personal reasons".

The Labour group said he had done "his full share of casework and surgeries" but could not confirm if any money would be repaid.