Starmer Faces Scrutiny Over Lockdown-Breaking Voice Coach Meeting

Keir Starmer is facing scrutiny over claims he broke lockdown rules by meeting his voice coach, Leonie Mellinger, on Christmas Eve 2021 during Tier 4 restrictions. This controversy has intensified due to Starmer's previous criticisms of Boris Johnson regarding lockdown breaches, raising questions about his own adherence to the rules he publicly supported. Critics are demanding clarity on whether the meeting was a work-related event or a social visit, especially since Mellinger was not employed by Labour at that time. The situation has led to accusations of hypocrisy, as Starmer had been a vocal advocate for stricter lockdown measures while allegedly engaging in activities that contradicted those principles. No 10 has declined to comment, which some interpret as an implicit acknowledgment of the allegations. The ongoing debate highlights the broader issue of accountability among leaders during the pandemic.