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<p>IPSA considered a range of options for its new system of reimbursing MPs’ business
costs and expenses. The system selected is more integrated and efficient than its
predecessor systems, and holds the personal data of MPs and their staff more securely.
The software selected is widely used in the United Kingdom, including in many public
bodies. Prior to its launch in April, the effectiveness of the system was thoroughly
tested, including by MPs and their staff. Its benefits include:</p><p> </p><p>- A
‘single sign-on’ capability to allow MPs and their staff to access the system directly
through their secure parliamentary account without an additional logon.</p><p>- MPs
and staff no longer need to send paper receipts and invoices to IPSA, but can scan
or photograph them and upload them digitally onto the system. This improves data security
and means that IPSA can process and reimburse claims more quickly.</p><p>- MPs’ staff
members can now be reimbursed directly by IPSA for their own expenses rather than
via their MPs.</p><p>- MPs and their staff are now able to amend their personal details,
including any change of name or address, on the new system themselves, without needing
to submit a form to IPSA.</p><p>- The new system allows claims from different budgets
to be submitted on the same form, rather than having to submit multiple forms.</p><p>-
MPs and their staff have constant access to financial information about the amounts
left in their budgets and the status of any repayments or amounts owed, rather than
waiting a monthly financial statement from IPSA.</p><p> </p><p>As of 13 June, 612
MPs have successfully submitted claims on the new system. IPSA is committed to supporting
and training MPs and their staff as they become accustomed to the new online claims
system. IPSA does not intend to make it its policy to reinstate the previous system.</p>
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