head too far in the trough to notice the rule changes

From the Dundee Courier:

"However, Mr Purvis has now learned that the rules may have changed in 2003 without him being notified. “I don’t recall having been told of any change,” Mr Purvis said.

I knew the rules and I simply don't believe that you didn't. Not when every single MEP was told about the rule changes come reelection in 2004.

That is why you are supposed to have a professional in charge of financial transactions, someone who makes an effort to know what the rules are. Considering Purvis has been an MEP since 1869 or similar, it just doesn't wash.