Labour rebel faces scrutiny
Rachel Reeves has reportedly accepted free VIP tickets to a Sabrina Carpenter concert at the O2 Arena while Labour rebels are battling against impending benefit cuts. The Chancellor enjoyed luxury hospitality in a corporate box owned by AEG, a former client of lobbying firm FTI Consulting. The box has previously hosted clients from oil, tobacco, and banking giants.
Awkward timing for Reeves
There is no suggestion that Reeves broke any rules, but this revelation comes at a sensitive time as Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall is set to crack down on disability benefits soon. While Reeves attended the concert, Work and Pensions Committee chair Debbie Abrahams was reportedly mobilizing opposition to the benefit cuts among Labour MPs.
Concerns over free hospitality
Labout MP Rachael Maskell, involved in the revolt against the cuts, expressed worry about ministers accepting free hospitality while disabled individuals fear their support may be reduced. Reeves's spokesman assured that all declarations will be made in the usual manner.
