Sir Keir stuck to his guns yesterday, saying if he did not accept hospitality he would not be able to go and see his team, Arsenal.

The Labour Party leader, who won power in a landslide victory on July 4, denies impropriety over thousands of pounds (dollars) worth of clothes and eyeglasses paid for by Waheed Alli, a media entrepreneur and longtime Labour donor.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said he has “no problem” with ministers getting a “chance for a little bit of relaxation” as part of their jobs.