By John James
Sky News’ Kay Burley called out Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy for claiming she had received free tickets to Taylor Swift’s concert, insisting, ‘I paid for mine,’ as the Labour freebie controversy continues.
Nandy appeared on Burley’s Sky News show to address allegations that the Home Office had arranged police escorts for the American singer during her London shows this summer.
The Metropolitan Police reportedly hesitated to provide taxpayer-funded security for Swift, but Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and London Mayor Sadiq Khan stepped in to ensure her safety after security concerns arose.
In a separate incident, several prominent Labour Party members, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, were criticized for accepting complimentary tickets to Swift’s concerts.
Nandy defended the party members, stating that there was no wrongdoing or undue influence involved in receiving the tickets. She also denied claims that the Home Secretary had intervened in Swift’s security arrangements.
The Culture Secretary engaged in a heated exchange with Burley, accusing her of also benefiting from free tickets. Burley refuted the claim, emphasizing that she had paid for her tickets upfront.
Nandy maintained that as long as individuals are transparent about receiving such perks, it is up to the public to judge. She clarified that decisions regarding security arrangements are made by the police, not the government.
The day was not without its challenges for Nandy, as she faced criticism from money-saving expert Martin Lewis over the government’s decision to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners. Lewis accused the government of neglecting the poorest pensioners, prompting a defensive response from Nandy.