This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It will not be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/uk_politics/7508737.stm

The article has changed 9 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 6 Version 7
MPs vote to change expenses rules MPs vote to review expenses rules
(21 minutes later)
MPs have taken a step towards changing their controversial system of expenses.MPs have taken a step towards changing their controversial system of expenses.
They are preparing to abolish what has become known as the "John Lewis" list, where they can claim up to £24,000 a year to furnish their second homes. They rejected a Conservative plan to abolish the so-called "John Lewis" list, where they can claim up to £24,000 a year to furnish second homes.
MPs voted for a government plan to cut the amount they can spend on furnishings to £2,400. But they backed a government proposal to recommend limiting the maximum to be spent on furnishings to £2,400 a year.
But they can still claim up to £24,000 on overall second home costs, to cover expenses such as mortgages, rent, council tax and utility bills. Both plans would still allow MPs to claim up to £24,000 a year to cover second home expenses such as mortgages, rent and utility bills.
The £2,400 should be enough to cover "reasonable costs" for furnishings, Commons leader Harriet Harman said. The £2,400 limit for furnishings should be enough to cover "reasonable costs", Commons leader Harriet Harman said.
Ministers want the National Audit Office to oversee the system of allowances and to judge what it is reasonable for MPs to spend.Ministers want the National Audit Office to oversee the system of allowances and to judge what it is reasonable for MPs to spend.
The Tory plan was defeated by 295 votes to 238, while the government's was approved without a vote.