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Labour Donor Waheed Alli's £500k Donation and Revoked No. 10 Pass Spark Cronyism Allegations

Aug 25, 2024, 07:31 AM

Labour peer Waheed Alli, a significant donor to Keir Starmer, has been at the center of controversy after it was revealed that he had a security pass to 10 Downing Street. Alli, who contributed £50,000 towards Starmer's personal expenses and a total of £500,000 to the party, is a major figure in election fundraising. He reportedly had access to areas typically reserved for officials and staff and organized a post-GE party attended by donors in Downing Street's garden. The pass has since been revoked, with Labour sources stating it was always intended to be temporary. However, the reasons for his initial access remain unclear, leading to allegations of cronyism against Starmer's leadership. The issue has sparked criticism regarding the neutrality of the Civil Service and raised questions about Labour's governance practices, especially since the party has only been in power for 7 weeks.