AN MP caught up in the expenses controversy last night told how public confidence could be restored in politicians.

MPs will find out this week if they are to repay any of their claims following an investigation.

Stafford MP David Kidney said: "I think we can restore the public confidence in MPs if everything is out in the open and a new system for claiming expenses is brought in.

"The focus is on people who have claimed help with a mortgage for a second home. I have never bought a second home and have never claimed a mortgage on one.

"I have already made a repayment to the fees office for £2,400 following a mix up where they paid the same bill twice. That happened in 2007 but it had never happened before or since."

Letters giving detailed analysis of each member's claims and amounts of money which should be paid back are being posted out this week.

Some MPs have already made repayments following the scandal which broke in March, but more than 300 MPs are expected to be asked to provide more information to justify their claims.

The investigated is being handled by former civil servant Sir Thomas Legg.

MPs will have three weeks to challenge the findings and can appeal to the Commons' standards and privileges committee.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown is expected to be asked to hand back some of the money spent on a cleaner for his flat in London before he moved to Downing Street.