GORDON BROWN has performed a spectacular U-turn in proposing emergency changes to MPs’ expenses.

It demonstrates that the penny has finally dropped about how strongly people feel over the exploitation of the system.

We must accept that most MPs – including those representing constituencies in this region – need accommodation in London if they are to do their jobs properly. It would be wrong to run away with the notion that all MPs are fleecing taxpayers.

It is, however, certainly true that some of those based in the South – not least Home Secretary Jacqui Smith – are shamelessly bending the rules.

We, therefore, welcome the fact that emergency reforms will be put to the vote as early as next week. If MPs hadn’t voted against changes a year ago, they might have saved themselves from a public flogging.

A “less generous” system, based on a daily fixed-rate attendance allowance, appears to be a step forward.

And yet it will be hard for many voters to escape the irony that MPs will be receiving the additional payment for doing what they were elected to do – represent us in the House of Commons.

It will take more than that to restore public confidence, and there remains a need for a comprehensive review of pay and perks by the Committee on Standards in Public Life.

At the very least, Mr Brown’s interim proposals represent a start – and a recognition that MPs have no choice but to accept change.

It is something which should give them plenty of food for thought during their 12-week summer holiday.