Breaking News: Douglas Hogg resignation

The Lincolnshire MP embroiled in a row over expenses claimed for his moat has announced his resignation.

The Sleaford and North Hykeham MP has announced that he will stand down at the next election and apologised for the "collective and personal" failure over expenses.

Tory Mr Hogg has represented his Lincolnshire constituency for 30 years.

Last week the Daily Telegraph revealed that he had claimed £2,000 of taxpayers' money to have the moat cleaned at his home, as well as £14,000 a year for a "lady" to look after the property.

He has since paid back the £2,000.

In his resignation statement he said: "I understand the public anger that has erupted over expenses. The current system is deeply flawed; we parliamentarians have got it wrong and I apologise for that failure which is both collective and personal.

"David Cameron has called for an early election. I agree with him. We need a new Prime Minister, a new government and a refreshed parliament."

For more on the resignation, see Wednesday's Echo.