Kent MPs claimed nearly £2.2million in allowances last year, an average of nearly £130,000 each.

Official figures show that the county’s 17 MPs together claimed £2,197,769 in various allowances, including £320,698 in second home allowances.

There is mounting pressure on MPs over their expenses and Gordon Brown has asked a parliamentary watchdog to review the entire system.

It comes amid a backlash against the sums being claimed for MPs who use second homes when at Westminster. Their allowance can be used to pay household bills, TV subscriptions and council tax.

Roger Gale, whose Thanet South constituency is among the furthest from Westminster, claimed £9,375.

Canterbury and Whitstable MP Julian Brazier claimed £15,071 and Faversham and Mid Kent MP Hugh Robertson £23,083 – the maximum MPs are entitled to for covering second home costs.

Total expenses claimed by Mr Brazier was £129,279 which included £397 for 30 journeys taken by his wife, Kate. Overall, he claimed £550 for 50 journeys made by family members.

Mr Gale claimed a total of £131,760 and Mr Robertson £117,406, including £170 for 11 journeys.

Under the allowances scheme, MPs’ wives and husbands can claim for up to 30 single journeys made between London and their constituency or main home.

Kent MPs also claimed £113,358 for meeting the costs of producing newsletters and other communications with constituents.