“Westminster cannot operate like some gentlemen’s club where the members make up the rules to suit themselves,” Mr Brown said. “These are big changes. They change centuries of history for Parliament.” Some MPs have justified lavish expenses by arguing that the Commons has been reluctant to increase salaries. In future, the independent Senior Salaries Review Body will make decisions about MPs’ salaries. The body will also oversee the Register of Members’ Interests and monitor MPs’ outside earnings.