David Cameron has apologised for the “unethical behaviour” of some Conservative MPs following the ongoing expenses row.

The Witney MP and Tory Party leader has vowed to pay back his one small claim, but today announced a widespread shake-up of how his party would in future claim Parliamentary expenses.

He admitted it would not fix the problem, but said Tory MPs would from now on have to detail every expenses claim when it is made.

He has banned so-called “flipping” - where some MPs change the designation of their first and second homes and has outlawed Tory MPs claiming furniture, household goods and food on expenses.

He said only council tax and overnight claims could be claimed.

Mr Cameron said: “I am sorry it has come to this. I am sorry for the actions of some Conservative MPs.

“Some have taken public money to pay for things that frankly few can afford — you have been let down.

“This is taxpayers’ money — and MPs should never forget that simple fact.”

Mr Cameron said MPs should claim what was reasonable to do their job — not with what they could get away with.

He said Michael Gove had been ordered to pay back the £7,000 he had claimed for furniture, Oliver Letwin would pay back £2,000 he claimed for fixing a pipe under his private tennis court, Alan Duncan would pay back £5,000 claimed for gardening expenses and Francis Maude would no longer claim a second home allowance.