Bridget Phillipson unaware of any cabinet minister who declined free Taylor Swift tickets
Bridget Phillipson, the UK Education Secretary, has admitted she is unaware of any cabinet ministers who declined free Taylor Swift concert tickets amid an ongoing controversy about government officials receiving such perks. Phillipson, who received tickets valued at £522.54 as a gift from the FA, stated she would not accept any further freebies in the future. She made these remarks during interviews with BBC Radio 4 and ITV’s Good Morning Britain.
The issue has raised questions about the ethics of accepting gifts, as six cabinet ministers, including Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, have declared receiving Swift tickets in the latest parliamentary register of interests. The controversy is compounded by the extra security provided to the pop star during her stay in London, including a blue-light police escort, which is typically reserved for royalty and senior politicians.
Despite the Metropolitan Police initially declining Swift’s request for extra security following a foiled terror plot in Vienna, she was ultimately granted the escort. Downing Street has denied any conflict of interest, asserting that the decision was made independently by the police. Prime Minister Keir Starmer also met with Swift and her mother following one of her concerts, further fueling speculation.
Phillipson emphasized her commitment to adhering to the ministerial code and fulfilling all required obligations concerning declarations of gifts and interests. However, she denied any conflict of interest in the ministers’ acceptance of free tickets.