Palin's expenses record reviewed

The Washington Post is reporting that Republican vice US presidential nominee and Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has charged her state a daily allowance, normally used for official travel, for more than 300 nights spent at her home.

An analysis of travel statements filed by the governor, now John McCain's running mate, shows she claimed the per diem allowance on 312 occasions when she was at home in the town of Wasilla and that she billed taxpayers US$43,490 (€30,621) for travel by her husband and children.

Per diem payments are meant for meals and incidental expenses while travelling on state business.

Ms Palin's spending and record in office are coming under intense scrutiny as she is presented to the nation as a champion of ethics reform and frugal use of taxpayers' money.