I Am a Member of Parliament

I am a Member of Parliament,
And down to London I was once sent;
I buy not from shops that are basic or cheap,--
A thousand pound TV the profit I reap;
My party line I merrily chant;
Where’er I walk no money I want;
And why I’m so flush the reason I tell, --
Who claims his expenses  is sure to live well.
    What tinker or tailor,
    Or honest taxpayer?
    Lives half so well as an expenses player.

My re-election is my main concern,
Without those expenses less money I’ll earn;
Myself, by denial, I mortify –
With plenty of food that I never buy;
I’m clothed in the very best for my sin,--
Paid for by the people who voted me in;
“I’ve done nothing wrong,” is my favourite song,
And the division bell my excuse, ding dong.
    What tinker or tailor,
    Or honest taxpayer?
    Lives half so well as an expenses player.