WEST Devon and Torridge MP Geoffrey Cox this week pledged to issue a full break down of his expenses, following the on-going political furore over the issue.

Mr Cox said all MPs should be ready to explain 'every penny' of their use of public money.

He already includes a summary of the annual totals of his allowances on his website.

However, the MP said he would now, from June 1, publish all receipts and a full breakdown of his expenses.

Mr Cox said: 'These will show I have never claimed or received reimbursement for my personal benefit at the public expense for any household or other goods and services, including food, furniture, maintenance, utilities, or subscriptions.

'I have not engaged in "flipping" the designation of my secondary accommodation, or in manipulation of the allowances, or in spending up to, or delivering just short of, the available limit.'

Mr Cox said his additional cost allowance had been used solely to defray mortgage interest payments, ground rent and compulsory service charges on his London flat, which was bought without assistance from the taxpayer.

Mr Cox claimed £20,250 for his second home allowance for 2007/08, according to figures of all MPs' expenses on a BBC website.

He claimed £20,898 for his office; £81,135 for staff; £567 for general stationery, £1,523 for stationery and postage; £1,238 for IT provision; £6,283 for communications and £13,466 for travel — £145,360 in total.

'Although this is the second largest constituency in England, I am one of the three most economical of the 16 MPs in Devon and Cornwall,' said Mr Cox.

'I believe expenses and allowances ought to be used with care and moderation by MPs who must be accountable to their constituents.

'I have acted on that principle since I had the great privilege of being elected and I assure my constituents I shall continue to do so.'