Photo: BBC

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has defended her decision to accept free tickets to a Sabrina Carpenter concert, stating that she will declare them as required. Speaking on BBC’s ‘Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg,’ Reeves mentioned that her security arrangements make attending public events more complicated. This comes after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer introduced stricter rules on ministerial gifts and hospitality following criticism over previous donations.

Starmer had to repay over £6,000 in gifts, including six Taylor Swift tickets, though he justified his acceptance of corporate hospitality at an Arsenal football match due to security concerns. The new regulations require ministers to ensure their actions maintain public trust, but they do not prohibit receiving donations outright.

Reeves clarified that her concert tickets were not available for purchase and that she would declare their value. She had previously stated she would not accept clothing donations as a government minister, a stance taken after scrutiny over gifts received while in opposition.

The issue of political gifts remains under debate, with figures like shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith also declaring high-value gifts, including Bafta tickets and ski passes. Griffith defended his actions, emphasizing that such hospitality is common and properly disclosed. The discussion highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and ethical standards in government.

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Original title: Reeves defends taking free Sabrina Carpenter tickets

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