Michael Pownall

Clerk of Parliaments
House of Lords
London
SW1A 0PW

10th August, 2009

Sent by post and fax to 02072190329

Dear Mr Pownall,
Regarding Lord Sheldon and designation of his 'main home'

We are writing to formally ask you to investigate Lord Sheldon, focusing on the situation
regarding the designation of his main home. Lord Taylor has claimed over £130,000 for
a house in Manchester he gave away to his son in 2003. It is alleged that since 2003 the
semi-detached property has been owned by Lord Sheldon's son Terry who lives there
with his wife Carol. But he claimed 'overnight subsistence' for the home until May this
year when he made London his main home because he says his wife was ill.

There is further circumstantial evidence that would support this claim;

• When he became a Lord he nominated Manchester as his main home in 2001

• He continued to to claim the allowance after he gave the house to his son in April
2003 and has since received payments totalling 2003
• Land registry documents confirm that Terry Sheldon (Lord Sheldon's son) is the
main owner of the Manchester home
• Neighbours at the Manchester home said they knew Lord Sheldon but rarely saw
him

The evidence above points Lord Taylor's primary home being in London where he lives
with his wife. It would appear to us that there is a prima facie case for Lord Sheldon to
answer concerning these arrangements and that further investigation, with the full
compliance of Lord Sheldon, is needed so this matter can be cleared up.

Thank you for your time and cooperation in advance and we would appreciate an
acknowledgement of this letter by email or telephone.

Yours sincerely,

T : 020 7837 3312 F : 070 9201 2337 E : team@sunlight-cops.org.uk

Albion Buildings, 1 Back Hill, London, EC1R 5EN
A not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, advocating political transparency and openness.
Christopher Galley
Centre for Open Politics
chris.galley@sunlight-cops.org.uk

T : 020 7837 3312 F : 070 9201 2337 E : team@sunlight-cops.org.uk

Albion Buildings, 1 Back Hill, London, EC1R 5EN
A not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, advocating political transparency and openness.