Tax specialist Mike Thornton wins Eastleigh by-election

TAX SPECIALIST Mike Thornton has won the Eastleigh by-election to become a member of Parliament.

Thornton, (pictured) who is a member of the Liberal Democrat party, was business development manager for tax specialists. Portal Tax Claims. However, because he has successfully succeeded Chris Huhne he will need to step down from the company.

"I'm losing a great staff member but the Lib Dems are gaining a true business champion," said Mike Thornton's former employer, Shaun Murphy, managing director of Portal Tax Claims - which specialises in calculating capital allowances.

"The question on everyone's lips in the tax world is, ‘Will Mike use his maiden speech in Parliament to bang the drum for capital allowances?' Mike has been a great advocate for this overlooked, complicated but very necessary tax break for business and we hope to see him continue to fight the good fight in Parliament.

"The Lib Dems now have a top tax specialist in their midst and the opposition face a tough challenger the next time there's a debate on tax in the House.

"He's coming straight from the coalface and following a very successful career helping hundreds of businesses secure millions in tax rebates. We're sorry to lose him but no doubt the tax man will take a different view on seeing the back of a sharp opponent!."

Portal Tax Claims helps SMEs calculate their capital allowance relief and wins most of its business through accountant referrals. Although Thornton is not a qualified accountant himself, former accountants from various firms including KPMG work at Portal Tax Claims.

Huhne stepped down as MP for Eastleigh earlier this year after he pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice. He admitted that his ex-wife took speeding points for him a decade ago.