Clegg Confronted Over Expenses Claims Amid Political Cleanup Claims

<p><br /> Nick Clegg's attempt to portray himself as the man to "clean up" politics has been challenged after he was confronted over his own expenses claims.<br /> </p><p><br /> The Liberal Democrat leader said his Sheffield constituency home was in a state of "complete disrepair" when he bought it.<br /> </p><p><br /> Speaking at a press conference in Westminster, he defended his claims for work on his garden, saying it was a "complete eyesore" when the home was bought.<br /> </p><p><br /> Mr Clegg was questioned about claims including a new kitchen, gardening work to prune apple and plum trees, a new garden wall and a shopping trip to Ikea for items including cushions.<br /> </p><p><br /> Mr Clegg said: "On one simple issue of fact, I think you are right I made a mistake and there were a few personal calls, I think they amount to about £80 or £90, which were personal calls which were wrongly charged to expenses... I paid the money back instantly."<br /> </p><p><br /> The reporter asked: "If it's our house, can we all stay for free?"<br /> </p><p><br /> "I know there's new politics, but there's a limit," Mr Clegg joked.<br /> </p>