Gordon Brown, Prime Minster and Labour Party Leader, has announced proposals to make MPs' allowances simpler and less generous.

The proposals would see an end to the second homes allowance, which would be replaced by a flat rate daily allowance. This would not be available to Ministers living in official residences nor MPs within travelling distance of Westminster. Other proposals include new rules on the way staff are employed and greater transparency on second jobs held by MPs.

The Prime Minister is calling for a vote in the House of Commons on the matter as early as next week.

Gordon Brown, said:

“I believe we have to act urgently with interim proposals to restore people’s confidence that MPs are there to serve the public and not serve themselves.

"With these changes I hope that the work of MPs can be recognised again for what it is - service to the public.”