Douglas Ross cleared of wrongdoing by Westminster watchdog over travel expenses

Outgoing Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross’s expense claims were within the rules, the parliamentary standards watchdog said on Friday as it confirmed it would take no action against him.

Mr Ross was investigated by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (Ipsa) over allegations that he may have claimed expenses to facilitate travel to his third job as a football linesman.

He was accused of filing for flights from Scotland to London, as well as train travel and parking, for activities not related to his position as the MP for Moray.

Mr Ross strongly rejected accusations of wrongdoing.

An Ipsa spokesman said: “We have reviewed Mr Ross’s travel claims, relating to the allegations made in the press, and met him to discuss the issues that have been raised.

“Following this review, we are satisfied that the claims were within Ipsa’s rules and no further action is required.”