FORMER deputy London mayor Ian Clement appeared at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court this morning facing five charges of fraud.

The charges relate to use of his Greater London Authority (GLA) credit card while working at City Hall for London Mayor Boris Johnson, on a salary of nearly £128,000 a year.

Mr Clement, 44, former leader of Bexley Council, is accused of fraud by false representation in connection with five expenses claims he made using his GLA card.

They involve:

- £65 for a meal with Tory MP for Chipping Barnet, Theresa Villiers claimed on October 17 last year.

- Lunch with Enfield Council leader Councillor Michael Rye claimed between November 20 and November 26 last year, costing £32.50.

- A meal with Barnet Council leader Councillor Mike Freer claimed between the same dates, costing £72.50.

- A meal with Kensington and Chelsea Council leader Councillor Merrick Cockell, again claimed between the same dates, which cost £51.70.

- £5.90 for coffee with Cllr Cockell claimed on March 22 this year.

The fraud charges amount to a total of £227.60.

Mr Clement, of Heatherbank Close, Crayford, wore a dark blue suit and navy tie, and appeared nervous as he spoke to confirm his name, address and age.

His solicitor, Jeremy Summers, asked district judge Timothy Workman for more time to examine the interview notes and police statements.

But Mr Workman would only agree to a delay of two hours.

When Mr Clement reappeared, he declined to make a plea to any of the charges, but he indicated he would want the case heard at a crown court.

The case was adjourned until October 6 and Mr Clement was remanded on bail.

Outside the court Mr Summers, speaking on behalf of his client, said: “Given the matter is now with the court, it would not be appropriate for Mr Clement to make any further comment at this time.

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