AS the media frenzy around MPs second home expenses deepens, the Echo invited south Essex MPs to take part in an “amnesty” and come clean about any claims which may embarrass them when full details are made public in July.

Day-after-day of leaks about claims for adult videos, tampons, dog food, manure, repairs to tennis courts and a whole catalogue of unjustifiable claims has been dominating the national headlines.

Under the current system, MPs can claim up to £23,083 a year to pay for the cost of working away from the main home by either renting or paying the interest on a mortgage on a second property. Running costs such as food and bills are also included in this figure.

FULL REPORT IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO