The foreign secretary asserts that the prime minister is “endeavoring to adhere to the regulations,” and an inquiry regarding a Labour benefactor purchasing attire for his spouse is “not a matter of transparency.”
Sir Keir Starmer is currently under investigation for a potential violation of parliamentary regulations after neglecting to declare that certain designer garments for his wife were purchased by his largest individual contributor, Lord Alli.
The Labour peer financed a personal shopper, clothing, and alterations for Lady Victoria Starmer, reportedly both prior to and following the Labour leader assuming the role of prime minister in July, as reported by The Sunday Times.
Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria Starmer arrive at No 10 Downing Street following Labour’s electoral success. Pic: PA
David Lammy came to Sir Keir’s defense while appearing on Sky News’ Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips.
When inquired if this situation could tarnish the prime minister’s image after vowing to reform politics, Mr. Lammy stated: “This is not a matter of transparency. It is, in fact, the prime minister striving to adhere to the rules.”
When pressed further about whether Sir Keir and his spouse required clothing donations considering the prime minister’s annual income is approximately £160,000, Mr. Lammy noted that there is “no budget” allocated for the prime minister’s wardrobe while in contrast, other nations, such as the US, have a “substantial budget” to ensure their representatives are well-groomed on the global stage.
He elaborated: “It has been customary for successive leaders of the opposition wishing to represent the nation internationally, as well as prime ministers, to rely on donors to finance that budget.”
The foreign secretary further defended Labour donor, Lord Alli, who had provided the gifts for Sir Keir and Lady Starmer.
Mr. Lammy portrayed him as a self-generated millionaire who has consistently supported and contributed to the Labour Party across multiple leaderships and prime ministers.
Lord Alli in 2014. Pic: Rex
This year, Sir Keir has obtained – and officially disclosed – nearly £19,000 worth of professional attire and multiple pairs of glasses from Lord Alli, according to The Times.
Additionally, the peer, whose net worth is estimated at £200m, allocated £20,000 for accommodation for the current prime minister during the election and a similar amount for “private office” expenses, which was also reported, stated the newspaper.
A spokesperson from Number 10 informed Sky News that this was a mistake, now rectified after it “sought guidance from the authorities upon taking office.”
They added: “We assumed we had complied, however, following more scrutiny this month, we have disclosed additional items.”
After undergoing interviews Sunday morning – in which he stated Vladimir Putin cannot effectively bullyThe West’s support for Ukraine – Mr. Lammy and Sir Keir watched the north London derby football match between Tottenham and Arsenal together.
The foreign secretary remarked on X, stating: “The boss’ team secured a win this time against expectations, but the season has just begun.”
The Conservatives have called for a “thorough investigation” following a report by The Sunday Times.
A spokesperson for the Conservative Party stated: “It has only taken 10 weeks for Keir Starmer to confront an investigation regarding his conduct.
“In light of accusations concerning cronyism and now evident significant violations of parliamentary regulations, a comprehensive inquiry into the glasses pass scandal is necessary.
“It is certain that the millions of vulnerable retirees across the nation, who are faced with the dilemma of heating or eating, would gladly welcome the opportunity for free clothing to stay warm amidst Labour’s harsh cuts.”
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Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria campaigning in London. Pic: PA
Lord Alli’s association with the Labour leader has already sparked controversy after it became known that he received a Downing Street security pass without evidently holding a government position.
Sir Keir, like all Members of Parliament, is obligated to declare any relevant interests under regulations established to safeguard politics from undue influence and ensure transparency.
