Sir Keir Starmer has defended shadow foreign secretary David Lammy’s £200,000 salary from their second employment during this parliament, but he has stated that the laws need to be tightened.
For the first time, Tortoise Media has compiled all MPs’ incomes from second jobs and donations into a single database.
Mr. Lammy is one of only two Labour MPs in the top 20 earners, and he has recorded income from more than 40 distinct sources. The most of any MP – totaling £202,599 since December 2019 when this parliament began.
Sir Keir, the leader of the Labour Party, has supported a prohibition on second jobs for members of Congress. With a few exceptions.
Labor leader Sir Keir responded to Mr. Lammy’s high earnings by telling. “I believe David does a lot of media work. And I think media work and writing books are all part of the political process.
“However, there is room for debate; I was encouraging the entire House of Commons to adopt new laws. Because I believe we should eliminate second employment under some circumstances.
“Some positions need individuals to update their expertise. And I believe that if you publish a political book, you may qualify for an exception.
“However, I still urge the House of Commons to adopt new, more stringent rules. The sooner we can accomplish this, the better.”
Former prime minister Gordon Brown’s assessment of the constitution for Labour at the end of last year proposed a ban on second employment for members of parliament, with an exception for those who need to retain professional qualifications, such as physicians and lawyers.
Sir Keir welcomed the ideas, although a definitive list of exempt occupations has yet to be compiled.
Mr. Lammy has defended his radio show in the past. Stating that he is “the only black presenter on LBC” and that it is “essential for my constituents.”
Jess Phillips is the only other Labour MP in the top 20, ranking 19th with £162,838 in external earnings. Including almost £65,000 for a book advance, £25,000 for appearing on Have I Got News For You, and just shy of £30,000 for columns in the Independent.
