The official residence of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street has undergone a significant refurbishment and furnishing process, with the total cost to taxpayers reaching nearly £30,000. This expenditure, while within the allocated annual grant, has sparked political debate and calls for greater transparency regarding the use of public funds.
Breakdown of the Expenditure
According to details released through a freedom of information request, the Cabinet Office, which manages the Downing Street estate's residences, spent a total of £29,761 on the project. This amount is notably less than the £30,000 taxpayer-funded allowance provided annually for the prime minister's official residence.
The costs were divided into two main categories: £14,319 for refurbishment work and £15,442 for furnishing the flat. Specific purchases included three sofas priced at £4,440, a bed costing £1,400, six kitchen chairs for £990, £9,000 allocated for internal painting, and £1,600 for a shower screen.
Historical Context and Political Scrutiny
The flat was previously occupied by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, whose refurbishment reportedly totalled over £200,000, far exceeding the allocated grant and leading to controversy over its funding. In contrast, Sir Keir Starmer's refurbishment has remained under budget, but it has still attracted criticism from opposition parties.
The Conservatives have accused Labour ministers of refusing to disclose how the money was spent when asked through parliamentary questions for an itemised list. Alex Burghart, the shadow chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, emphasised the importance of scrutiny, stating, "They were happy to keep MPs in the dark about sofas, furniture and refurbishment costs funded by taxpayers, until FOI forced the information into the open. Scrutiny is important and pushes the Government to make better decisions – sunlight is the best disinfectant."
Official Response and Future Use
A Downing Street spokesperson defended the expenditure, explaining that the flat was empty when Sir Keir Starmer entered office, necessitating the Cabinet Office to furnish it in accordance with long-standing guidance across successive administrations. The spokesperson added, "The refurbishment came under the allocated budget, and none of the items belong to the Prime Minister. They will remain the property of the Government for future use."
Sir Keir Starmer's family currently resides in No. 11 Downing Street, one of two ministerial flats, having moved in after Jeremy Hunt. The Prime Minister recently hosted Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten at Downing Street, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic functions of the residence.
This refurbishment comes amid broader political discussions, including Sir Keir Starmer's rejection of claims by Lord Robertson that the government is 'complacent' on defence, underscoring the multifaceted challenges facing the administration.
