[Wynonie Harris]

I've yet to see one MP genuinely acknowledge what they've done. Responses range from the "I've done nothing wrong, I've stuck to the rules" defence to the "I can understand that people are angry with system" line (yes, they are but they're also angry with cheating, freeloading, troughing politicians).

Occasionally, reality breaks through - Margaret Beckett, a drab little incompetent who has been notable only for her mediocrity in the succession of government posts she's held was loftily explaining to the audience on "Question Time" the trials and tribulations of running a grace-and-favour home. The look of startled surprise on her face, as the audience turned on her, as one, was a picture - the game's up, we aren't going to be patronised anymore!