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Are politicians too close to wealthy businessmen?

Are politicians too close to wealthy businessmen? Plus, are there enough public toilets? Graham Stewart takes your calls.

Is there any scandal in politicians accepting the hospitality of wealthy businessmen?

Shadow chancellor George Osborne has denied claims he tried to solicit a £50,000 donation for the Tories from a Russian billionaire. But there are also questions over Peter Mandelson's friendship with Oleg Deripaska, after it emerged he accepted hospitality aboard the Russian's luxury yacht. The Tories question whether this was a conflict of interest given that, as then EU Trade Commissioner, Mr Mandelson had a role in setting tariffs for the aluminium which made Derpaska so rich.

Plus: Are there enough public loos, and are they being looked after properly?

A cross-party group of MPs has called for action to halt a steady decline in the number of public toilets. The communities and local government select committee says councils should be forced to plan adequate toilet provision to avoid further suffering for vulnerable people, who use the conveniences the most.

Graham Stewart takes your calls, texts and emails.

55 minutes

Last on

Wed 22 Oct 2008 09:05

Broadcast

  • Wed 22 Oct 2008 09:05