I have had occasion to ask Mr Hammond for help on more than one occasion. 

I have always found that he acted promptly either writing to me direct or getting a minister to write to me.  His wife certainly helps deal with his correspondence and her replies are always quick and helpful. 

I have never met Mr Hammond or indeed spoken to him nor am I member of any political party.  One speaks as one finds and in my opinion he is a good local MP. 

I am not aware that it is not permitted to employ one’s wife and would imagine that it is very useful to have that sort of assistance available at any hour of the day and not to be regulated by office hours.  The taxpayer probably gets good value.   

J M Spiteri

Merton