Travel perks for children likely to stay

Taxpayer-funded travel entitlements for MPs' children appear set to be extended under a revamp of MPs' expenses and perks later this year.

A report by the Auditor-General into Phil Heatley's spending revealed the Speaker is planning changes to the rules on entitlements for MPs.

The report notes that the changes include removing the present restrictions on travel for MPs' children between their homes and Wellington.

At present, MPs' children get up to four taxpayer-funded return flights to Wellington each year and MPs must pay for any travel beyond that.

Parliamentary Services refused to provide details, saying the final wording was yet to be finalised.

The Auditor-General found Parliamentary Services was continuing to pay for unlimited travel for children under five, despite a 2007 rule change.

Since December 2007, the rules for those aged under five have aligned with those for older children.

Parliamentary Services admitted it had continued with the previous practice and given "incorrect advice" to up to 16 MPs, including Mr Heatley.