Green Party member Hannah Spencer has questioned Keir Starmer about the appropriateness of discounted alcoholic beverages for Members of Parliament in the House of Commons.
The Gorton and Denton representative previously expressed discomfort with the drinking culture in Parliament, stating that MPs were voting on important matters after consuming subsidized alcohol.
Spencer highlighted instances of what she deemed as unprofessional and risky behavior among some MPs and raised concerns about the affordability of drinks in comparison to her constituents.
During a session of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Spencer emphasized the discrepancy in pricing between her constituency and Parliament, where she observed some MPs consuming alcohol before voting, which she found concerning given the gravity of the issues they decide on.
In response, the Prime Minister welcomed Spencer to Westminster and used the opportunity to jest about the tax issues of Green Party leader Zack Polanski, who recently admitted potential lapses in paying council tax while residing on a houseboat.
The PM underscored the importance of serving the public and delivering effective governance, suggesting that different opinions exist on the matter of alcohol consumption in Parliament, but ultimately emphasizing the government’s commitment to the welfare of the people and the nation’s prosperity.
Polanski has since apologized for the confusion regarding his residency status on the houseboat in east London, clarifying the situation according to government guidelines on council tax liability for primary residences.