Queen Elizabeth "displeased" with MPs' expenses scandal

London, May 17 (ANI): As the astounding disclosure in Britain's parliamentary expenses scam continues to roll out names, Queen Elizabeth has expressed her "dismay" privately.

"Her Majesty has made clear her displeasure at what she has learnt. She is concerned about the effect that it is having on Parliament's standing," The Telegraph quoted a courtier, as saying.

The courtier, a former senior Palace official, adds of the MPs' behaviour: "It goes against everything she believes in."

Last Wednesday, Prime Minister Gordon Brown had an audience with Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace. It is not known, however, whether the growing furore was discussed.

The Queen also held a Council at the Palace that day, attended by Jack Straw, the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, and Hazel Blears, the Communities Secretary, who have been criticized for their dubious expense claims.

Some political experts have predicted that the Queen might advise the Prime Minister to call an immediate general election, but the courtier claims it was unlikely.

Kenneth Rose, the historian with close links to the Palace, says he is not surprised to hear of the Queen's views.

"I have no doubt at all that, privately, she finds the kind of expenses claims that we have seen documented absolutely appalling," he says. (ANI)