Expenses blackouts anger papers

Outrage continues in the press over the blacking out of parts of the officially published MPs expenses receipts.

The Daily Telegraph has compiled what it calls "comprehensive data" on the MPs' claims, in a 68-page supplement.

Its highlights of what it calls the "25 Most Ludicrous Claims" include a single paper clip, a carrier bag and dog food.

The Daily Mail attacks what it calls the "squalid farce" surrounding the choice of a new Speaker, saying MPs must recognise the gravity of the vote.

The Guardian argues that Scotland Yard's decision to launch a full inquiry into MPs' expenses will undermine attempts to draw a line under the affair.

But the Sun says that if Westminster's worst graspers end up in the dock, it is no more than they deserve.

Iran election

The Telegraph carries further MP allegations, this time about what it calls inflated council tax claims.

It says many MPs profited from the fact that, until last year, they could claim up to £250 a month without a receipt.

The Independent discusses the decision by Ayatollah al Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran, to back the disputed re-election of President Ahmedinjead.

This, and the Ayatollah's warning against further protests have made Iran and its immediate neighbourhood a more dangerous place, the paper says.

The Guardian says huge numbers of Iranians will not accept his assertion that the results were genuine.

The Times urges President Obama to speak out on liberty and human rights.

Wrapped up

A bizarre court case over a sweet wrapper, which blew out of a car window after being dropped by an 18-month-old girl, is also covered in the press.

The girl's aunt was then charged with depositing controlled waste.

The Sun says Kirklees Council spent an estimated £5,000 pursuing the case after Larissa Wilkinson disputed a fixed penalty notice.

A judge at Bradford Crown Court later threw the case out, describing it as a grotesque waste of taxpayers money.

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