Ex-Labour MP In Court Over Expenses

Former Labour MP Margaret Moran appeared in court today accused of fiddling her expenses by around £80,000.

The 56-year-old, who represented Luton South, faces 15 charges of false accounting and six of using a false instrument.

It is alleged that she ''flipped'' her designated second home, making claims for properties in London, Luton and Southampton.

Prosecutors also claim that she submitted forged invoices.

Moran appeared at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court today, speaking only to confirm her name and date of birth.

Wearing a dark suit, she could be heard crying in the dock before the hearing.

Moran, who stood down at the last election, will appear next at Southwark Crown Court on October 28.

The charges include an allegation that Moran dishonestly claimed £22,500 to repair dry rot at her Southampton home.

She is also accused of falsely claiming £14,805 for boiler repairs and work on her conservatory.

Prosecutor Louis Mably told the court that the charges involve a total in the region of £80,000.