DEWSBURY and Mirfield MP Shahid Malik has welcomed the new recommendations for parliamentary expenses.

As reported yesterday, Sir Christopher Kelly, chairman of the Committee on Standards in Public Life, has published the findings of a review of the expenses system.

Among the recommendations, which could come into force in five years’ time, is a ban on MPs claiming for mortgages and a ban on them employing relatives.

Mr Malik was caught up in the widespread criticism of alleged abuses of the system earlier this year.

He had to stand down from the Government in May while his expenses were scrutinised after he was accused of securing discounted rent for his home in Dewsbury Moor.

He was later cleared of any wrongdoing and returned as a minister.

Mr Malik said, on the whole, Kelly’s recommendations were right.

He added: “The recommendations are fair and reasonable and the changes to be made are a price worth paying if they can restore confidence in our democracy.

“I’m sure all MPs will want to play their part in redeeming the prestige and credibility of parliament by supporting Kelly’s recommendations fully.

“I know that some MPs feel upset and disappointed but that pales into insignificance compared to the feeling amonglarge swathes of the public in terms of how the system has operated in the past.”