Thirsty Peers Splurge on French Fizz
Champagne sales in the House of Lords have reached a five-year high in 2023, as figures reveal that 1,589 bottles of the luxurious French fizz were purchased, costing nearly £90,000. This surpassed the previous year's total of 1,580 bottles, amounting to £85,000.
Out of Touch or Just a Celebration?
Critics argue that these numbers unveil the extent to which the ermine-robed lawmakers of Britain are disconnected from reality. SNP MP Tommy Sheppard expressed his dismay, stating, "Voters will be fizzing to hear that, while they were struggling to balance household finances and pay for basics like groceries and energy, unelected Lords were glugging back champagne. The past year has been defined by Westminster's cost-of-living crisis that has seen living standards plummet and countless more households pushed into poverty and deprivation – a reality alien to the Lords and their lavish lifestyles."
Setting the Record Straight
A spokesperson for the House of Lords defended the sales, clarifying that all alcohol, including champagne, sold in the House of Lords is done so at a profit. They further explained that most of the champagne purchased is bought by visitors in the gift shop and consumed outside of Parliament by members of the public. Additionally, it is sold at banqueting events to organizations or individuals hosting events in the House of Lords. Importantly, these purchases are not funded by taxpayers.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/politics/from-tax-cut-bonanza-to-crunch-battle-on-rwanda-what-to-expect-from-rishi-sunak-in-2024-ahead-of-general-election/
