Watford MP Claire Ward has refused to comment on a leaked Parliamentary report proposing swingeing cuts to members’ expenses.

Former civil servant Sir Christopher Kelly will next week publish the findings of a wide-ranging review into MPs’ expenses – a report ordered by the Government in the wake of the summer’s expenses scandal.

Controversial proposals, widely leaked in the media, include a ban on second home allowances for members whose constituencies are less than one hour’s train ride away from Westminster.

Other proposals, reported by the BBC, included new rules to prevent MPs "flipping" their second homes and avoiding capital gains tax.

Asked to comment on the proposals, Ms Ward said she would not comment on a leaked report and would state her views on its findings only when it was officially published next week.

She added, however, that any changes made would not impact on Watford's next MP (whether her or another candidate) because of legislation she has already voted for in the House of Commons.