One of the largest claims to cover mortgage interest was made by Michael Connarty, the Labour MP for Linlithgow and East Falkirk, who received £34,168 relating to a property in London of which he has now returned £6833, as requested.

Brian Donohoe, the Labour MP for Central Ayrshire, has been asked to pay back £9469 and has so far paid back £2100 of the total, which he has agreed to settle in full.

Her comments at the state opening of parliament come with less than 500 days to go before the historic poll on the country's constitutional future.

Outlining the Coalition's programme today, she said: "My Government will continue to make the case for Scotland to remain part of the United Kingdom."

In the traditional ceremony, the Queen outlined eight Bills which apply in full to Scotland but none which apply exclusively north of the border.

It was also notable for what it missed out.