STANDARDS in public life have come under intense scrutiny in the last fortnight, leaving public confidence at an all-time low.

Many MPs have second jobs, with some, like Sir Geoffrey Cox coining in vast sums on top of their already high salaries.

Freebies, cash for answering questions and donations from the private sector are also the source of deep concern.

FULL LIST: The North East MPs raking in thousands in donations and second jobs

This week, The Northern Echo lifts the lid on where MPs in our region get their income as part of our The Money Trail investigation tracing the cash behind our MPs.

We tracked the cash trail using the Register of Members' Financial Interests, and while there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing, there are some surprising results.

We're publishing the records held for every MP in the North East and North Yorkshire to help you understand how your politician compares.

And here are the figures for the Labour Middlesbrough MP, Andy McDonald as of November 1.

How much did he make in second jobs and additional income?

Mr McDonald is not recorded as having any second jobs nor did he receive any additional income while serving as an MP.

How much has he received in gifts, benefits and hospitality?

Mr McDonald received a donation equivalent to the value of £1,176 from Unite the Union for accommodation during the Labour Party conference between September 24 and 29.

Extra entries on the register

Mr McDonald has the following entries recorded as miscellaneous, which include declarations of involvement in local businesses where they may not receive an income.

He is recorded as being a solicitor, although not currently employed as such, which was registered on December 28, 2012.

What Andy McDonald had to say

Andy McDonald, MP for Middlesbrough, said: “It is absolutely right that the Register of Members’ Interests is open and transparent and people abide by the rules.” 

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