With fresh claims of MPs abusing the expenses system the public's trust is understandibly low and the news that investigation of these claims will be heard by a panel of  MPs in private has done nothing to allay the public' growing distrust of Westminster

Many now see Westminster as a self-serving organ of the Establishment distant and uncaring that simply feeds the interests of its members who couldn't care less about the fortunes of the country as long as they keep their seat at he top table. Perhaps the worm will turn and the system a growing number see as corrupt will be forced to change, but as yet there is no sign of that happening soon.