Sir Keir Starmer could face a parliamentary probe over claims he failed to declare donations of clothing given to his wife, Victoria Starmer.
The gifts, provided by Lord Alli, a key Labour donor, reportedly included a personal shopper service, garments, and alterations, which were not initially recorded in the register of MPs’ interests as required by parliamentary rules.
The donations reportedly occurred both before and after Labour’s general election victory in July. Under parliamentary guidelines, MPs must register gifts and donations within 28 days.
The omission came to light after The Sunday Times revealed the unregistered donations, prompting Starmer to approach parliamentary authorities for clarification. Following updated advice, he made a late declaration.
No. 10 issued a statement saying, “We believed we were compliant, but after further review, additional items have been declared.”
Lord Alli’s involvement has raised eyebrows before, particularly after it was revealed he received a Downing Street security pass despite no formal government role, in what was called the “passes for glasses” scandal, referencing Alli’s previous donations of eyewear and other personal items to the Labour leader.
The Conservative Party has seized on the matter, calling for a full investigation into Starmer’s conduct. “It’s taken just 10 weeks for Keir Starmer to be investigated,” said a Tory spokesman, referencing allegations of cronyism. “Vulnerable pensioners are struggling to choose between heating and eating, yet the Starmers seem to enjoy freebies at the hands of Labour’s elite.”
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