A FORMER Warrington MP has given his views on an allegation that the Prime Minister has ‘broken parliamentary rules’.

Sir Keir Starmer has insisted that ‘rules are being followed’ regarding declarations of clothing donated to his wife, Victoria.

The Prime Minister is alleged to have broken parliamentary rules by failing to declare donations of clothing for Lady Starmer within the designated time limit.

The Conservatives have written to the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner to call for an investigation.

The gifts, from prominent Labour donor Lord Alli, were not initially declared in the register of MPs’ interests.

The Sunday Times reported that the Prime Minister approached the parliamentary authorities on Tuesday to make a late declaration after being given updated advice on what needed to be registered.

Sir Keir said it was ‘very important’ to him that rules are followed and that ‘we have transparency’.

He said: “I have always said that. I said that before the election. I have reinforced it after the election.

“And that is why, shortly after the election, my team reached out for advice on what declaration should be made, so it is in accordance with the rules.

“They then sought out for further advice more recently, as a result of which they made the relevant declarations.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Picture: PA

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Picture: PA

“But for me, it is really important that the rules are followed. That is why I was very pleased my team reached out proactively – not once, but twice – because it is very important that we have transparency, very important that you and others can see the rules are being followed.”

Donations reportedly covered the cost of a personal shopper, clothes and alterations for Lady Starmer both before and after Labour’s election win in July.

MPs are required to register gifts and donations within 28 days.

Conservative former Warrington South MP Andy Carter, who sat on Parliament's Standards Committee during his time in office, has given his view.

Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Carter said: “The rectification process was used by the Standards Commissioner in 2022 after Sir Keir failed to register eight interests.

“Repeated breaches are likely to be treated more seriously. These rules are the personal responsibility of the MP, regardless of their role in Government.

“I am sure I am not alone in asking why the PM felt it was necessary to accept gifts of clothes and glasses totalling £20,000.

“How many grey suits does he need, and what does that really say about Sir Keir’s commitment to this being a Government of service and the integrity promised?

“It is worth saying that the rules are there to ensure there is transparency in terms of influence in politics.

“The rules do not prohibit politicians from accepting gifts. They are there to make it clear who has donated what and when.”