Thanks very much Lox, that's very helpful. You're right, London prices are way beyond what we might expect in other parts of the country, which is why I asked in the first place.
But the MP wasn't renting a whole flat, but sub-letting a single room and apparently also paying contributions to running costs. As a rent for sharing, when you're providing additional help with outgoings, I still think £950 a month seems over the top.
Obviously, the whole system of Parliamentary Expenses needs sorting out properly and the same standards that apply in life outside cosy world of Westminster introduced as soon as possible - and administered by a strong, neutral body. I think lots of people will judge not just the current Govt but MPs in general on the success of achieving this.
Georgina