Jess Phillips Defends Starmer’s Arsenal Freebies Amid Broader Criticisms of Government Spending and Transparency

Jess Phillips Dismisses Significance of Sir Keir Starmer Receiving Complimentary Arsenal Tickets

According to the Westminster Accounts project by Sky News, Sir Keir Starmer tops the list of MPs in terms of receiving free gifts and hospitality since 2019.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, September 20, 2024, 6:

For optimal video playback, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser.

A government official stated that it is completely irrelevant that Sir Keir Starmer has received more complimentary gifts than any other Member of Parliament.

Jess Phillips expressed her contentment with the prime minister's justification that attending Arsenal games in person would result in exorbitant security expenses for the taxpayer, following revelations that he had received several free football tickets.

The prime minister has come under scrutiny following a report by Sky News' Westminster Accounts project, which showed that he accepted gifts and hospitality worth £107,145 since December 2019. This amount is over double what any other MP has received.

He has reported receiving £12,588 worth of perks from the Premier League, with various Arsenal game tickets making up over £6,000 of that total.

Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, Ms. Phillips, expressed to Sky News, "I don't believe it holds any significance whatsoever."

👉 Tap here to subscribe to Electoral Dysfunction on your favorite podcast platform 👈

She also stated: "I believe it's important to take into account the sentiments of the nation's populace."

"I must admit, it hasn't been brought to my attention. Not one email has come my way regarding this matter.

I've received numerous emails regarding individuals struggling to access housing lists.

"Therefore, I would greatly prefer to concentrate on this issue and for Keir Starmer to prioritize initiating housing construction."

Explore Further: Navigating the Westminster Accounts Database: Find Information on Your MP

This week, controversy has also surrounded the government following revelations that Sir Keir's chief adviser, Sue Gray, receives a higher salary than the prime minister.

A disclosure to the BBC indicated that Ms. Gray, the head of the "partygate" investigation concerning Boris Johnson's administration, earns £170,000, surpassing the Prime Minister's annual income of £167,000.

Ms. Phillips refuted claims that Sir Keir is out of touch with the operations within Number 10.

She stated, "From my perspective within the administration, I can confirm that everything is operating smoothly. In the 11 weeks since we've been in power, even in my specific area, we've implemented and initiated more changes than what was accomplished in the previous decade under the Conservatives."

Explore further: Sue Gray earns a salary appropriate for her role, despite surpassing the Prime Minister's earnings. Starmer's attempts to rationalize accepting complimentary items only exacerbate the situation.

For an enhanced video experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

Ms. Phillips acknowledged the issue of leaks, noting, "Hasn't that always been the case?"

Sir Keir has affirmed that he is "fully in charge," in response to inquiries about why Ms. Gray earns a higher salary than he does.

Former Labour MP and current peer Harriet Harman, who also co-hosts Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction podcast, stated that Ms. Gray's salary is appropriate for her position.

The baroness described Ms. Gray as an "exceptionally competent individual" and noted that the cabinet secretary's salary is £200,000, whereas the individual in charge of Manchester City Council earns £220,000.

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information About Sky News

Services Offered by Sky News

Sky Network Channels

Additional Sky Websites