British Labour MP Frank Cook has apologised for trying to claim back a £5 church service donation.
The Sunday Telegraph said the claim, which followed a memorial service for the Battle of Britain, was rejected by the House of Commons Fees Office.
Mr Cook said he had 'no recollection' of asking to be reimbursed, but accepted that the newspaper would not have invented the claim.
'I don't know how it happened. I have no recollection of it,' he told reporters.
He went on: 'I am not going to turn round and blame some member of staff. I am responsible. That's it. I can't explain it. I'm sorry.'
The newspaper published a picture of a handwritten note attached to the claim which stated: 'Battle of Britain church service, Sunday 17.09.06. £5 contribution to offertory on behalf of Frank Cook MP.'
British Party leaders are setting their ideas in an attempt to restore the reputation of parliament in the wake of the expenses revelations.
Downing Street is said to be drawing up plans for a legally binding code of conduct, setting out MPs obligations to constituents.
The Conservatives have welcome the Liberal Democrats idea of giving voters power of recalling their MPs to face a bye-election.
