A probe into the behaviour of Skipton MP David Curry will go ahead.

The Tory MP is facing allegations that he claimed almost £30,000 towards the cost of a property that it was claimed his wife does not allow him to use.

After the allegations emerged, Mr Curry referred his case to Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards John Lyon, who investigates alleged expenses misuse.

Last night the Commons committee on standards and privileges confirmed the investigation will go ahead and Chris Mullin MP will take over from Mr Curry as chairman of that committee.

A statement from the committee said: “The committee agreed with the Commissioner that the first allegation against Mr Curry is potentially serious because of the sums of money involved and because, if proven, it would seriously affect Mr Curry’s standing and reputation.