Harper discusses previous defence of Wallin in wake of audit findings

Stephen Harper is defending his handling of the Senate expenses controversy in the wake of an audit showing that one of his appointees, Pamela Wallin, filed more than $120,000 in questionable claims.

Speaking during a Whitehorse stop on his annual summer tour of northern Canada, the Prime Minister also called for Ms. Wallin to be made to fully accountable for her actions.

Mr. Harper was asked why he rose in the Commons in February to defend Ms. Wallin.

"At the time I indicated that all of the senator's individual expenses would be subject to robust scrutiny through an audit that of course has since been done and obviously has uncovered some significant problems," the prime minister said.

Distancing himself from Ms. Wallin, whom he appointed to the Senate in early 2009, Mr. Harper noted the senator had quit the Conservative caucus some months ago.

"I would expect that action will be taken to ensure full accountability for any breaking of rules," the prime minister said.

Ms. Wallin is being asked to repay $121,348 after an independent audit found a series of problems with the former broadcaster's expense claims – including billing taxpayers for partisan fundraisers.

The senator, who now sits as an independent, has already repaid $38,369.29 and has pledged to repay whatever she owes, but called the audit process "flawed and unfair."