Starmer rejects calls for probe into Taylor Swift meeting as freebie scandal engulfs ANOTHER minister

SIR Keir Starmer rejected calls for an investigation into his Taylor Swift meeting — as the freebie controversy engulfed another minister.

The PM will not refer himself to the independent adviser on ministers’ interests over the singer’s VIP police escort for her Wembley gigs.

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He met her backstage at Wembley in August after she was given taxpayer-funded blue-light assistance normally only afforded to royalty and senior politicians.

He and wife Victoria had already seen Swift at the same venue in June.

Asked if there was a perceived conflict of interest, No10 said: “No, on the basis that the decision-making in this case was for the Met operationally and independently.”

Tory leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick had called for an investigation.

The PM has paid back the £2,800 of tickets and hospitality he was given for Swift’s August 20 concert.

No10 insists the tickets from her record label were not a thank you for the police protection.

Meanwhile, Science Secretary Peter Kyle was yesterday accused of failing to declare on time two Swift tickets and hospitality worth £584.

Mr Kyle was a guest of the Football Association for her Wembley gig on August 15 — but registered the gift only on October 3, outside the 28-day deadline.

It came just hours after he told the Commons that Labour “raises standards in public life”.

A source said it was a mistake.