British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has violated parliamentary regulations by failing to disclose that a wealthy businessman and Labour Party donor purchased high-end clothing for his wife Victoria, according to a report by the Sunday Times on Saturday.
The Sunday Times revealed that Starmer, who has been in office since July, is now facing an investigation for 'neglecting to disclose' that significant Labour donor Waheed Alli paid for a personal shopper, clothing, and alterations for his wife. The premier's financial interests, as registered on the parliament's website, indicate that he has received multiple donations from Alli, including several pairs of glasses, work clothes, and accommodation. However, the Sunday Times noted that while these donations were declared, the clothes provided to his wife were not.
A spokesperson for 10 Downing Street, in a statement sent to Reuters, explained that Starmer and his team had consulted with authorities upon taking office and believed they were in compliance. 'However, following further scrutiny this month, we've declared additional items,' the spokesperson added.
Alli, a British media entrepreneur and former chairman of the online fashion retailer ASOS, is subject to the House of Commons code of conduct, which requires members of parliament to disclose financial interests that could reasonably be perceived as influencing their work. A spokesperson for the Conservative Party has called for a comprehensive investigation into 'apparent serious breaches of parliamentary rules'.
