Keir Starmer has defended his decision to borrow an £18 million penthouse flat from Labour donor Waheed Alli during the election campaign, explaining that the arrangement was made to provide his son with a quiet place to study for his GCSEs, away from the media and protesters outside their family home. The Prime Minister highlighted the "human" aspect of the situation, emphasizing that the move was motivated by a desire for his son to focus on his studies without distractions. He clarified that no financial transaction took place in connection with the arrangement.

David Lammy, the foreign secretary, has indicated that it is common practice for political donors to fund the wardrobes of prime ministers and their spouses. This statement comes amid controversy surrounding the late declaration of funds used for personal shopping and clothing for Victoria Starmer, the wife of Labour leader Keir Starmer. The donations from Labour donor Waheed Alli, which were intended to cover clothing expenses for Victoria Starmer, were not initially reported in the register of MPs’ interests. According to reports, the gift was only registered after Keir Starmer sought guidance from parliamentary authorities on the matter. Lammy's comments suggest that such financial support from donors is a typical aspect of political life in the UK, as leaders and their partners often rely on these contributions to maintain their public image.