Boris Johnson's ex-deputy charged with expenses fraud

A former deputy of London Mayor Boris Johnson appeared in court today charged with fraud over alleged misuse of his expenses.

Ian Clement, 44, who resigned from his post in June, declined to enter pleas to the five charges when he appeared at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court in central London.

Senior District Judge Timothy Workman adjourned the case until October 6.

Clement is on unconditional bail.

His lawyer, Jeremy Summers, said outside court: "Given that the matter is now with the court, it would not be appropriate for Mr Clement to make any further comment.

"He does, however, remain surprised that a publicly funded prosecution is being brought for meal expenses totalling £227."

Clement, from Crayford, Kent, was the mayor's deputy for government and external relations.

The charges, which were read to Clement, alleged that he falsely represented that he had incurred business entertainment expenses of varying amounts, using a Greater London Authority-issued credit card.