Sir Keir Starmer holds a demanding role and should be able to enjoy gifts and hospitality if declared properly, a cabinet minister has stated. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds told Sky News that a prime minister dedicates nearly all their waking hours to their duties. If they can engage in activities important to them, it should not be an issue.
Sky News’ Westminster Accounts project disclosed that Starmer has received more gifts and hospitality than any other MP since becoming Labour leader. Since December 2019, he has accumulated £107,145 in gifts, benefits, and hospitality, a specific category in the parliamentary register of MPs’ interests. A significant portion of this, nearly £40,000, comes from the Premier League, as Starmer, an Arsenal fan, has received many tickets.
Reynolds reiterated that the prime minister’s role is intense and significant. If they can spend a bit of time with family or indulge in personal interests, it shouldn’t pose a problem. He also mentioned that it is reasonable for prime ministers to be in a directors’ box at such events for security reasons.
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Total amount of clothes and entertainment ‘gifted’ to Starmer is an unbelievable £76,000 more than any other MP.
What kind of 62 year old man is that interested in fashion? pic.twitter.com/ZBKhXYspd1
— 🇬🇧 Johannes 🇬🇧 Reform UK (@Johanne31785773) September 15, 2024
When questioned about free tickets to concerts like those of Taylor Swift and Coldplay, Reynolds argued that it is crucial for public figures to remain connected to major cultural and sporting events. MPs are required to register gifts and donations within 28 days, and Reynolds confirmed that there are clear rules in place, expressing no objections to the system.
Reynolds also addressed the government’s controversial decision to scrap the winter fuel allowance for most pensioners, stating it should not be linked to the prime minister accepting freebies. He emphasised that addressing major issues facing the UK requires a change of government, and conflating the two matters would be misguided.
Earlier, Foreign Secretary David Lammy defended the prime minister’s acceptance of gifts, arguing that leaders and their spouses must present themselves well on the world stage, especially with no taxpayer-funded budget for it. Reynolds took a different stance, suggesting the prime minister deserves experiences beyond constant work due to their demanding role.
Despite these defences, allegations of conflicts of interest persist, especially regarding the prime minister’s acceptance of football match tickets while considering a football regulator. Labour backbenchers have voiced frustration with the handling of this situation, with some criticising Starmer as an “ivory tower leader” due to the contrast between tough economic decisions and his acceptance of over £100,000 in gifts.
Starmer has defended his acceptance of football tickets, citing security reasons that prevent him from attending games without hospitality. The situation has been further complicated by reports that his chief of staff, Sue Gray, earns over £170,000, a salary higher than the prime minister’s. Reynolds clarified that adviser salaries are not set by politicians but through an official process, emphasising that Gray is focused on delivering the government’s promises.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Ground News reports that a cabinet minister says Sir Keir Starmer should be allowed freebies if declared correctly due to the pressure of his job, amid a revelation of substantial freebie receipts since 2019. (Read more)
- Yahoo News UK: Prime Minister Keir Starmer is in a “pressure” job, but should be allowed to enjoy gifts and hospitality if declared correctly, a cabinet minister argues. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is Sir Keir Starmer receiving so many gifts?
Sir Keir receives gifts due to his high-profile role and long-standing interests, such as supporting Arsenal.
Is it acceptable for politicians to accept gifts?
Yes, if gifts are declared correctly and comply with parliamentary rules.
How much has Sir Keir Starmer received in gifts since 2019?
Sir Keir Starmer has received £107,145 in gifts, benefits, and hospitality since December 2019.
Why do prime ministers deserve to accept gifts?
Prime ministers work under immense pressure and deserve some personal enjoyment if it does not conflict with their duties.
Are there any concerns related to Sir Keir Starmer accepting gifts?
Yes, there are concerns about potential conflicts of interest, especially regarding football match tickets.
