EURO MPs last night hit back at a report in which they were branded "Brussels Snouts" and said to be cashing in with expenses claims.

Thirty-three British MEPs were singled out in the report as "clocking on" at the European Parliament for cash handouts and then quickly leaving.

Others were said to be pocketing a daily allowance of £165 on days when the parliament held no sessions.

Those named included North-East Tory MEP Martin Callanan and Richard Corbett, Labour member for Yorkshire and the Humber.

Last night Mr Callanan told The Northern Echo: "I have always been scrupulous in abiding by the rules of the parliament and there is no accusation here that I have done anything wrong.

"I do agree, however, that there is a lack of clarity and I have constantly voted for reforms regarding the procedures surrounding expenses."

In a statement, Mr Corbett said that the expenses claimed by MEPs were comparable to that of Westminster MPs. He said: "It is a perception fuelled by the Press that MEPs' allowances are outrageously high."

Under EU rules MEPs can sign a register indicating their presence in parliament in order to claim expenses.