Tory Leadership Contender Tugendhat Questions Starmer’s Lavish Gift Totals Amid Transparency Concerns

Tory leadership candidate flags concerns over Starmer's extensive perks and presents

Tom Tugendhat, the former security minister and current contender for the Conservative Party leadership, expressed to Sophy Ridge that the significant expenses reported for Sir Keir Starmer merit further scrutiny.

Political correspondent @FaithLRidler

Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 7:

Tom Tugendhat has emphasized the importance of transparency following revelations that Sir Keir Starmer has accepted significantly more complimentary gifts than any other MP since he took over as 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 league table created for Sky News' Westminster Accounts project, which explores the movement of money within politics, the prime minister accepted gifts and hospitality that were more than double those received by any other MP.

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In the ranking, the individual following closely behind is the Leader of the Commons, Lucy Powell, with gifts valued at £40,289, whereas the Prime Minister's gifts amounted to about the same as the next five Members of Parliament put together.

Mr. Tugendhat, a contender among four seeking to succeed Rishi Sunak as the leader of the Conservative Party, acknowledged that MPs receive numerous gifts and complimentary tickets, though many "politely refuse" them.

Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Politics Hub, he said, "I receive invitations to various events during different times. You have to consider, does it seem appropriate? Does it feel right? Essentially, does it pass the sniff test?"

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"Securing the top spot in that ranking certainly invites some scrutiny."

When questioned about the credibility of Sir Keir's statements, Mr. Tugendhat emphasized that the significant figure "raises questions."

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The candidate for the Conservative leadership emphasized the importance of transparency and noted that it appears Sir Keir is accurately disclosing information.

He remarked, "The issue at hand is, what's the reason behind everyone giving him all these free items?"

Tom Tugendhat, the ex-minister of security, is among the four candidates still competing to succeed Mr. Sunak.

The other contenders include Kemi Badenoch, Robert Jenrick, and James Cleverly.

In the latest voting round, Mel Stride was eliminated from the competition. Mr. Jenrick led the round with 33 votes, while former business secretary Ms. Badenoch trailed with 28.

The previous home secretary, Mr. Cleverly, and Mr. Tugendhat each secured 21 votes.

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