TORY backbencher Julie Kirkbride succumbed to intense pressure over her expenses today by saying she will stand down as an MP.

At the same time, Luton South Labour MP Margaret Moran announced she will also stand down at the next election.

Bromsgrove MP Ms Kirkbride followed her husband, Andrew MacKay, in announcing her departure from parliament at the next general election.

The couple came under fire when it emerged that Commons allowances had been used to simultaneously fund both the homes where they lived.

In a resignation letter to party leader David Cameron, Ms Kirkbride wrote: "Today I am announcing that I will not seek re-election for my Bromsgrove constituency.

"My principal concern has to be for my very loyal local supporters in Bromsgrove whose trust in me has been very humbling in the last few weeks.

"I also want to see the Conservative Party have a great result in next week's elections, which will lead to a real change at the general election and you as our prime minister.

"I also must take into account the effects on my family."

Ms Kirkbride apparently informed Mr Cameron of her decision in a phone conversation this morning. Replying to her letter, he said he completely understood the move, and praised her for being "frank and candid".

She was under pressure for employing her sister as a part-time secretary - even though she lived more than 120 miles from her constituency and 100 miles from Westminster.

Yesterday she vowed to fight on, while admitting she would stand aside if Mr Cameron asked her to.

But the final blow appears to have been struck today, when the MP was criticised for part-funding a £50,000 extension at her constituency flat so her brother could stay and help with childcare.

Ms Kirkbride's resignation was announced within minutes of that of Ms Moran, who had been condemned for claiming £22,500 to treat dry rot at a home in Southampton, 100 miles from her constituency and Westminster.

"The understandable public anger over the issue of MPs expenses has caused me great stress and has seriously worsened my existing health problem," Ms Moran said in a statement.

"It is with great sadness that I have today informed the general secretary of the Labour Party following discussion with my family that I intend to stand down as a MP for Luton South at the next general election."