Len McCluskey, the former head of Unite, Britain's largest trade union, is under fire after revelations that he accepted lavish perks—including private jet flights and high-profile football tickets—from a company embroiled in a controversial hotel development deal.
Luxury Flights and Football Hospitality
Documents obtained by the Daily Mail show McCluskey was treated to private jet travel and premium football hospitality, allegedly arranged by a firm connected to a £100 million hotel project in London. The project, which has faced criticism for its financial dealings, was reportedly backed by Unite during McCluskey's tenure.
Questions Over Union Funds
Critics have raised concerns over whether union funds were indirectly used to facilitate McCluskey's luxury lifestyle. The ex-union boss, a close ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, has previously defended his expenses, insisting they were legitimate business costs.
Controversial Hotel Project
The hotel development, located in London's East End, has been mired in controversy over its financing and alleged lack of transparency. Unite initially invested millions in the scheme, which was later scrutinised for its links to property developers and questionable returns for union members.
Political Fallout
The revelations come at a sensitive time for Labour, as the party seeks to distance itself from past controversies. McCluskey, a key figure in Corbyn's inner circle, has long been a polarising figure in British politics.
Union insiders have expressed dismay over the allegations, with some calling for an independent review of Unite's financial decisions during McCluskey's leadership.
