Starmer denies any wrongdoing regarding these gifts, which included clothing and eyeglasses from Waheed Alli, a media entrepreneur and long-time Labour supporter.

While the gifts were legally permissible, the delay in their declaration has sparked controversy and raised questions about Starmer's transparency.

In response to the backlash, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds clarified that the pay bands for political advisers, including Sue Gray, are determined through an official process and not influenced by ministers.

Sue Gray, Starmer's chief of staff, earns £170,000 a year, which is £3,000 more than the Prime Minister's salary, leading to complaints from some government employees.

Despite suggestions to lower her salary to avoid controversy, Gray declined to do so, although government sources have denied that she was formally asked to take a pay cut.

As Starmer approaches his first party conference, he faces declining popularity, compounded by the ongoing scrutiny of his financial dealings and leadership decisions.

Starmer has emphasized his commitment to following the rules regarding gifts and rejected the notion of a wardrobe budget for prime ministers, asserting that taxpayers should not fund politicians' clothing.

The Conservative Party has accused Starmer of prioritizing the financial wellbeing of Labour officials over struggling pensioners, particularly in light of cuts to winter fuel payments.

This incident has not only raised questions about Starmer's adherence to legal obligations but also highlighted a broader concern regarding the transparency of the Labour Party's leadership.

UK MPs are required to declare gifts or benefits over £300, with expectations that they disclose anything that could influence their actions, making the scrutiny of Starmer's actions particularly significant.

In light of these controversies, Starmer has dismissed rumors of internal conflicts within his party, describing many of the circulating stories as 'wildly wrong.'

Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has faced criticism this week over undeclared gifts, including expensive items received from a prominent Labour donor.