The turmoil at the top of Scotland Yard took a further twist yesterday as it emerged that its most senior antiterrorist officer has been questioned by auditors over his expenses claims.

A report on the expenditure of Andy Hayman, the Assistant Commissioner, has been sent to the professional standards subcommittee of the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA).

Auditors were concerned because Mr Hayman’s expenses, totalling some £15,000 over three years, were higher than other members of the Met’s senior management board.

Leaked details of his claims included bills for drinks and an overnight stay at a Heathrow hotel, despite the fact that Mr Hayman had the use of a Central London apartment.

Sources told The Times that there was no suggestion of dishonesty in the review of Mr Hayman’s expenses.

The officer, who is the head of Specialist Operations at the Yard, is understood to have provided detailed written answers, explaining all of his expenses claims. The one-off use of a Heathrow hotel is believed to have occurred the day before Mr Hayman had to catch a flight at 4.30am.

A spokesman for the MPA confirmed yesterday that a report would be going before the professional standards subcommittee and “would be considered in due course”.

The latest leak is not connected to an ongoing investigation into the alleged abuse of corporate American Express cards that has led to a £4.7 million hole in Scotland Yard’s accounts.

However, it adds to the drip-feed of allegations and innuendo which have damaged the reputation of the force and undermined confidence in the leadership of Sir Ian Blair, the Commissioner.

Last week, a motion of no confidence in Sir Ian was defeated after an extraordinary meeting of the MPA.

David Davis, the Shadow Home Secretary, said that the leak “raises further concern over Sir Ian Blair’s leadership and control of the Met”.

Times Recommends

• An officer and a gentle woman
• Dame Helen Mirren is worthy of the Epidaurus
• Foods that can help to prevent swine flu