But this has not stopped them from claiming thousands of pounds in expenses.
Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority figures for the 2020-21 financial year show MPs across the UK had claimed over £9 million as of January 6.
The JPIMedia Data Unit has analysed the figures in order to find out how much has been claimed by members across Sunderland, Hartlepool, South Shields and Northumberland.
The eight MPs over the four areas spent £127,765.63 between them, on 448 claims over a nine month period from April 2020.
Below we have ranked the MPs from biggest to least spender.
5. Sunderland
Julie Elliott, the Labour MP for Sunderland Central BC, has spent £14,312.22 on 32 claims so far this year. Their biggest expense has been accommodation, with £5,810.34 spent. Photo: UK Parliament
6. Hartlepool
Mike Hill, the Labour MP for Hartlepool BC, has spent £13,366.47 on 44 claims so far this year. Their biggest expense has been accommodation, with £6,708.99. Photo: UK Parliament
7. Sunderland
Bridget Phillipson, the Labour MP for Houghton and Sunderland South BC, has spent £13,048.06 on 97 claims so far this year. Their biggest expense has been office costs, with £6,761.56. Photo: UK Parliament
8. Northumberland
Ian Lavery, the Labour MP for Wansbeck CC, has spent £9,259.59 on 29 claims so far this year. Their biggest expense has been accommodation, with £5,139.71. Photo: UK Parliament