Like everyone I was disgusted to hear of the misuse of the allowance system by some MPs when details of MPs expenses were first published in 2009. This misuse was simply unacceptable and was a huge breach of trust. MPs are paid a good salary, far in excess of what most of their constituents earn, and they should not use the allowance system to boost their income.

It is simply not good enough to say claims "are within the rules." The test should be "this is my constituents' money - how would they feel about this claim?"

I fully understand that every penny claimed as expenses and allowances has been earned by hard working taxpayers, who are right to expect the highest standards of probity from their elected representatives.

As my main home is in Nottinghamshire, I rent a room in a shared flat when I am working in London. I do not claim for food and I do not employ any family members or relatives.  All my expenses will be published online and I am pleased the voters of Nottingham South will be able to see exactly how their money is being spent.