Lord Alli, a prominent Labour peer and media entrepreneur, has come under scrutiny for his substantial financial support to the Labour Party and its key figures. Over the past two decades, Lord Alli has contributed nearly £1 million to the party and its members, including significant donations to Sir Keir Starmer and his inner circle.
The controversy centers on recent revelations about gifts provided to Lady Starmer, including designer clothing and a personal shopper. These donations have raised questions about potential influence and the appropriateness of such gifts to the family of a political leader.
Sir Keir Starmer has responded to the controversy, emphasizing adherence to donation rules. During a visit to Italy, he stated:
"The rules are absolutely clear in relation to gifts in terms of the declarations that need to be made. I've said before the election, I'll say again after the election, the rules really matter in terms of declaration. That's why my team reached out for advice on what to declare from the relevant authorities, they reached out again more recently, got further advice and hence the declarations have gone in in accordance with the rules so that it's transparent and you can all see according to the rules the declarations that were made."
Despite the ongoing controversy, Lady Starmer appeared unfazed at a recent London Fashion Week event, showcasing an outfit by designer Edeline Lee. The brand confirmed that the clothes were loaned samples, to be returned after the show.
Lord Alli's connections to the Labour Party extend beyond financial contributions. He joined the party in the early 1990s, encouraged by his neighbor and close friend Emily Thornberry. His influence has grown under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership, evidenced by his recent acquisition of a Downing Street security pass.
The peer's background is notable for several reasons. At 34, he became the youngest openly gay peer in Parliament and is one of the few openly gay Muslim politicians globally. Lord Alli played a significant role in campaigns to repeal Section 28 and equalize the age of consent, demonstrating his commitment to LGBTQ+ rights.
Lord Alli's wealth, estimated at £200 million, stems from his successful media career. His company produced popular TV shows like "The Word" and "The Big Breakfast," and later merged with Sir Bob Geldof's Planet Pictures.
The Electoral Commission's records show that Lord Alli's donations have benefited various Labour figures, including £100,000 to Sir Keir Starmer, £54,000 to Emily Thornberry, and £50,000 to Angela Rayner. These contributions have been a mix of cash and in-kind donations, potentially covering office costs and campaign expenses.
A Labour spokesperson addressed the issue, stating: "These donations have been made over the course of 24 years and are declared in accordance with Parliamentary and Electoral Commission rules."
As the controversy continues to unfold, questions remain about the extent of Lord Alli's influence within the Labour Party and the implications of his substantial financial support for key political figures.