‘What did MP David Gauke know about EU’s demands for £1.7bn from UK?’ asks UKIP man

Fighting talk: UKIP parliamentary candidate for South West Herts Mark Anderson (left) says current MP for the area David Gauke has questions to answer

Mark Anderson, who lives in Tring, says Mr Gauke – the current MP for the area – should have had the full details, as he is financial secretary to the Treasury.

Mr Anderson said: “Britain has received an additional payments correction from the European Union for £1.7bn to be paid by December this year.

“As the minister responsible for the direct payments that Britain makes to the EU, David Gauke should have been aware of this. If not, why not?”

Mr Anderson said that Tory MP Mr Gauke should explain in detail to his constituents how he was not aware, or that he was aware, of the EU’s demands.

He added that Mr Gauke should explain – as part of a statement that could go on his website – how a request for so much money can be justified.

The EU demanded the money late last month – saying it will have to be paid by December 1 – after the UK’s economy grew by more than expected.

Mr Anderson said: “I call on David Gauke to state whether the payments will be made at all and in what time frame.”

You can read David Gauke’s response here