Sir Thomas’ long-awaited report into MPs expenses, found the whole allowances system to be “deeply flawed”.

It ordered ten MPs in south Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to repay £23,000 claimed under the ACA between 2004 and 2009. Other large repayments were demanded from Winchester MP Mark Oaten (£2,826) and Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead (£1,723) – both for overpayments they received for mortgage interest.

Southampton Itchen MP John Denham was told to repay £1,265 for mortgage interest and expensive armchairs, Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne was asked to return £1,152 for gardening and New Forest East MP Julian Lewis was told to replay £1,068 for a pricey washer dryer and mortgage interest.

Other MPs asked to repay cash by Sir Thomas included Fareham MP Mark Hoban (£408) for claims relating to a bookshelf, a washing machine and food, Salisbury MP Robert Key (£530) for a cooker and microwave, Isle of Wight MP Andrew Turner (£681) for a mistaken claim for mortgage insurance and North West Hampshire MP George Young (£104) for electricity costs. MPs who were deemed to have “no issues” with their expenses were Romsey MP Sandra Gidley, and New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne. Every MP apart from Sir Peter has already paid back the money requested of them. Some – including Mr Hoban, Mr Key and Mr Turner – have paid more than they were asked for.