Labour MP for Livingston Jim Devine says he is "astonished and devastated" after being charged with making "dishonest" Westminster expenses claims.

Mr Devine has been cited to appear at the City of Westminster Magistrate's Court to answer the charges next month.

He faces two charges, both under section 17 of the Theft Act.  The first alleges that he dishonestly claimed £3,240 for cleaning services between July 2008 and April 2009. The second alleges he falsely claimed £5,505 for stationery in March 2009

Commenting on the charges from his home in Blackburn, West Lothian, Mr Devine said: "I deny any wrongdoing.  Yesterday we saw MPs paying back over a million pounds, with some paying back over £40,000.

"I am absolutely astonished and devastated at the decision that has been taken today.

"Two new charges have been brought, both of which are easily explained and both of which I'll be explaining in court.

"I've just heard what the allegation is. I can't believe I have been treated in this way. I referred myself to the police and they've been through every single one of my receipts.

"Other people have paid money back. If there's a problem, and I don't think there is one, why wasn't I given the opportunity to pay it back?

"I don't see how they can investigate without having questioned people related to this."

For full details of the charges against Jim Devine MP and more background, go here.

In a joint statement, the three Labour MP's facing charges said: "We are clearly extremely disappointed that the DPP has decided to instigate proceedings against us.

"We totally refute any charges that we have committed an offence and we will defend our position robustly. We are confident of our position and have been advised by eminent QCs.

"We maintain that this is an issue that should be resolved by the parliamentary commissioner who is there to enforce any breach of the rules.

"Clearly parliament's system of expenses is utterly discredited, but we believe there has been a complete inconsistency of approach to different individual cases.

"In defending ourselves we will continue to co-operate fully with parliamentary and legal authorities."

Speaking ahead of the CPS's announcement, Mr Devine had stated: "I'm obviously apprehensive but I would be astonished if I get charged.

"I'm amazed I’m at the centre of this maelstrom. It's been horrendous for myself, my family and my friends."