Sir Keir Starmer has defended his acceptance of complimentary football tickets, arguing it would be costly for taxpayers if he attended Arsenal matches from the stands. This follows revelations from a Sky News project which highlighted that he received £107,145 worth of gifts and hospitality since December 2019, more than any other MP.
Sir Keir disclosed £12,588 in gifts from the Premier League. These included four Taylor Swift tickets worth £4,000 during the election campaign, two Euros finals tickets valued at £1,628, and various Arsenal match tickets totalling over £6,000.
Government officials expressed concern that the prime minister’s acceptance of football hospitality could pose a conflict of interest, considering upcoming plans to reform the sport’s regulator—a move opposed by many clubs.
When questioned about his ties to Arsenal, Sir Keir explained he had been a season ticket holder for years. Now as prime minister, he told ITV London that security advice prevents him from sitting in the stands. He mentioned that doing so would incur significant taxpayer expenses for additional security. Instead, he has been offered more secure locations within the ground, avoiding extra costs.
When asked about the perception of accepting numerous high-cost hospitality tickets, Sir Keir maintained that most people would find his reasoning fair. However, former Labour MP Harriet Harman urged him to stop justifying the free gifts, suggesting it worsens the situation. She recommended he acknowledge it as a misstep and consider a charitable auction of the tickets.
Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, accused Sir Keir of cronyism. He argued that public confidence in the prime minister is waning due to perceived contradictions between his campaign platform and his actions.
Most of Sir Keir’s gifts and hospitality, totalling £86,708, were accepted in the last parliament, with £20,437 declared in the current parliament. Labour peer Waheed Alli was the largest donor, contributing gifts worth £39,122.
In a separate issue, Sir Keir addressed concerns over his top adviser’s pay during an interview with regional broadcasters. He declined to discuss individual salaries, stating it was not appropriate to do so.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Guardian reports on Keir Starmer’s £35k in free football tickets, raising scrutiny over conflict of interest in football regulator plans, with critics questioning his acceptance of luxurious perks from Premier League clubs. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why does Sir Keir Starmer say it would cost the taxpayer a fortune for him to watch Arsenal from the stands?
He says it would require additional security, costing taxpayer money.
How much has Sir Keir Starmer received in gifts and hospitality since December 2019?
He has received £107,145 in gifts and hospitality.
What gifts did Sir Keir Starmer declare from the Premier League?
He declared £12,588 worth of gifts, including football tickets and Taylor Swift tickets.
What is the main concern regarding Sir Keir Starmer accepting hospitality tickets?
Officials worry it could be a conflict of interest amid plans to overhaul the sport’s regulator.
What did Baroness Harriet Harman suggest Sir Keir Starmer do about the free gifts controversy?
She suggested he stop justifying it and consider auctioning the gifts for charity.
