David Lammy Defends Political Donors Funding Clothing for UK Leaders
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has defended political donors funding outfits for UK prime ministers and their spouses. Labour donor Waheed Alli funded clothing for Victoria Starmer, which wasn't initially declared in the MPs' interests register. Lammy stressed transparency and pointed out Starmer consulted parliamentary authorities for compliance.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has defended political donors funding outfits for UK prime ministers and their spouses, amidst controversy over Keir Starmer's late declaration of such donations.
Labour donor Waheed Alli funded clothing for Victoria Starmer, which wasn't initially declared in the MPs' interests register.
The donation was registered after Starmer consulted parliamentary authorities.
Lammy cited the generous taxpayer-funded expense allowance in the US for presidents and first ladies as a stark contrast.
He asserted that this practice is transparent, pointing out that Starmer took steps to comply with rules.
The donations included costs for a personal shopper, clothes, and alterations, raising questions among Tories who demanded a full investigation into the Starmers' connections with Lord Alli.
Tory critics also called for scrutiny over Alli's controversial Downing Street security pass.
Lammy emphasized that successive prime ministers often rely on political donations for their appearance unless they're independently wealthy.