Dorset MP Oliver Letwin agrees to payback

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West Dorset MP Oliver Letwin has repaid a £2,145 expenses claim for the repair of a leaking pipe under his tennis court.

He also apologised for the current expenses arrangements which he said were "out of kilter with the public." He claimed the cash in September 2006 along with hundreds of pounds to have the Aga at his Somerset cottage serviced.

It was revealed that since 2004 he has claimed in excess of £80,000 in expenses for the cottage, including the cost of heating fuel and emptying the septic tank.

Mr Letwin told the Daily Echo: I am very conscious that the last few days have been deeply damaging for politicians of all parties. I am also, of course, aware that my use of housing allowance for repair of a leaking water pipe has been criticised. There is no doubt that the expenses system is badly flawed and I, along with other MP's, have to take responsibility for this. That is why, in line with the decisions made by other members of the shadow cabinet , I have decided to pay the cost of the pipe back."

"Contrary to the impression that has been given, the pipe has nothing whatsoever to do with my tennis court other than by happening to pass beneath it on the way to my house. The water company served a statutory notice requiring me to have it repaired."

"I hope this explanation will at least enable your readers [Daily Echo]to judge my action in light of the facts."