East Renfrewshire’s two MSPs claimed more than £50,000 in expenses between them last year, new figures reveal.

The biggest claim – for £32,919 – was made by Jackson Carlaw, who represents Newton Mearns, Giffnock and Clarkston as MSP for Eastwood.

Figures published by the Scottish Parliament for the 12-month period to March this year show the Conservative politician received around £1,800 in mileage expenses, including journeys between his home in Waterfoot and Edinburgh.

Mr Carlaw also claimed £594 in rail travel costs and £8,100 for rent on a property in the capital.

The rent figure excluded gas and electricity bills, which were £849, and council tax, which was £1,350.

Mr Carlaw made a further claim of £12,948 for the cost of renting his constituency office in Thornliebank and having it serviced.

He also charged £730 for having the office windows cleaned and £157 for the office TV licence fee.

Mr Carlaw said: “As ever, all expenses incurred are in respect of my parliamentary duties.

“This particular period covers the coronavirus pandemic, presenting new challenges for my office, where my team were working constantly to assist the people of Eastwood.”

Meanwhile, Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur claimed £18,178 for the same period.

The SNP man, whose constituency includes Barrhead, Neilston and Uplawmoor, as well as parts of Renfrewshire, received £3,132 in mileage for journeys between his home in Johnstone and Edinburgh.

There was also a claim for £6,500 for the cost of renting his constituency office in Johnstone.

Mr Arthur said: “All of the expense claims in my name relate to the running of my constituency office, supporting my staff or attending parliament in Edinburgh as required.

“Recurring costs include renting my constituency office and trade waste services. Further recurring costs include utilities and telecommunications for my constituency office.”