Politics
Scrutiny Intensifies as Starmer’s Lavish Gifts Top Charts Amid Tory Leadership Race
Tory leadership candidate questions Starmer's extensive perks and presents, reports say
Former security minister Tom Tugendhat, in the race to lead the Conservative Party, expressed concerns to Sophy Ridge about Sir Keir Starmer's significant expenses, suggesting they warrant further scrutiny.
Political correspondent @FaithLRidler
Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 7:
Tom Tugendhat has emphasized the significance of transparency following revelations that Sir Keir Starmer has accepted more complimentary gifts than any other MP since he took over as the leader of the Labour Party.
The contender for the Conservative party leadership mentioned that the prime minister's acceptance of gifts, benefits, and hospitality totaling £107,145 since December 2019 "does raise some questions".
According to a ranking created for Sky News' Westminster Accounts initiative, which examines financial transactions within politics, the prime minister accepted gifts and hospitality that were more than double the amount received by any other Member of Parliament.
Today in Politics: Official Downplays Worries About Complimentary Swift Passes
In the league rankings, Commons leader Lucy Powell holds the second place with gifts valued at £40,289, whereas the Prime Minister’s received gifts are about equal to the combined total of the next five MPs.
Mr. Tugendhat, one of the four contenders aiming to succeed Rishi Sunak as the leader of the Conservative Party, acknowledged that MPs receive numerous gifts and complimentary tickets, though many choose to decline them courteously.
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on the Politics Hub, he said, "I receive invitations to various events at various times. You have to consider, does it appear proper? Does it feel appropriate? Essentially, does it pass the sniff test?"
In the Latest Political News
Recent political developments: Starmer criticized as 'detached leader' for accepting gifts amid reductions in winter fuel allowances
Keir Starmer's Giveaways: A Complete Guide – Exploring Their Controversial Nature
Is the government promoting self-service?
"Securing the top spot in that ranking does prompt a few inquiries."
When questioned about the credibility of Sir Keir's statements, Mr. Tugendhat emphasized that the significant amount "elicits inquiries."
Explore further on Sky News: ITV executive supports Ed Balls in conducting an interview with his spouse, Yvette Cooper. Huw Edwards' sentence will not be reconsidered.
The candidate for the Conservative leadership also emphasized the importance of transparency, noting that it appears Sir Keir is "handling disclosures correctly."
He asked, "What's the reason behind everyone giving him all these free things?"
Tom Tugendhat, the previous minister for security, is among the four contenders still in the running to succeed Mr. Sunak.
The additional contenders include Kemi Badenoch, Robert Jenrick, and James Cleverly.
Mel Stride was eliminated from the competition in the most recent voting round, where Mr. Jenrick led with 33 votes, and former business secretary Ms. Badenoch trailed with 28 votes.
The ex-Home Secretary Mr. Cleverly and Mr. Tugendhat each secured 21 votes.
Sky News Footer
Overview of Sky News
Services Provided by Sky News
Sky Networks
Additional Sky Websites
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.