The move follows widespread concern over Westminster MPs' expenses claims earlier this year.

The Assembly was suspended for much of time involved yet many members claimed the maximum £48,000 office cost allowance which was then available.

All claims were within the rules and approved by the Assembly.

Politicians do not need to provide receipts for such items, which must cost less than £30 individually and range from stamps to stationery.

But they are required to list the items bought, and state whether they have a receipt for it.

Some did not claim petty cash, while others claimed the maximum allowable in certain years.

An Assembly spokesperson said: "MLAs can receive up to £250 per month in petty cash. Petty cash is intended to cover the costs of minor items of expenditure, such as newspapers, stamps, incidental stationery items, etc, where each item costs less than £30.

"An MLA must list the items claimed for through petty cash and confirm whether receipts are held for these items."