Keir Starmer, the new Labour Prime Minister, is under scrutiny for accepting expensive gifts, including glasses and clothing valued at around £32,000, which were allegedly kept secret until after the general election.

Over the past three years, Starmer's total declared gifts have reached £102,120, encompassing multiple holidays, Premier League matches, and concerts.

Since taking office and with the easing of Covid restrictions, Starmer's acceptance of hospitality gifts has notably increased.

His acceptance of hospitality gifts surged dramatically from £900 to over £100,000 in the lead-up to his election victory.

The situation has raised concerns, especially after it was revealed that Starmer accepted £35,000 worth of tickets from football clubs.

The optics of accepting gifts from wealthy donors may create an appearance of obligation, which conflicts with the ministerial code that discourages such practices.

In response to the backlash, Starmer has pledged that he and his cabinet will refrain from accepting gifts of clothing in the future.

While accepting gifts of clothing is not uncommon in politics, the delayed registration of these gifts by Starmer and his wife has raised suspicions of impropriety.

Starmer has also received corporate hospitality for football matches, which, while expensive, is viewed as less controversial due to his lifelong support for Arsenal.

UK Foreign Minister David Lammy defended the acceptance of gifts, noting the absence of a state budget for the Prime Minister's clothing, although this was countered by comparisons to the lack of a budget for the First Lady in the US.

This controversy draws parallels to the 'cash for questions' scandal from the 1990s under John Major's Conservative government, raising questions about the integrity of current Labour politicians.

The controversy, dubbed the 'glasses for passes' affair, involves Labour peer Lord Waheed Alli, who provided gifts and a temporary pass to visit Downing Street, raising concerns about privileged access to the Prime Minister.