Sir Keir Starmer Accused of Breaching COVID-19 Lockdown Rules by Hiring Voice Coach
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is facing allegations of violating COVID-19 lockdown regulations in December 2020 by engaging the services of actress and voice coach Leonie Mellinger. The claims, detailed in the book Get In by journalists Patrick Maguire and Gabriel Pogrund, suggest that Mellinger was granted “key worker” status to conduct in-person sessions with Starmer at the Labour Party’s headquarters in London during a period of stringent restrictions.
Context of the Alleged Breach
On December 24, 2020, London and the South East were under Tier 4 restrictions due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. These measures prohibited household mixing, mandated the closure of non-essential businesses, and required individuals to work from home unless absolutely necessary. Despite these rules, Mellinger reportedly visited Labour’s headquarters to coach Starmer on his response to then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal. The session was conducted with safety protocols, including mask-wearing.
Political Reactions and Criticism
The revelation has prompted criticism from political opponents. Conservative MP Richard Holden has written to Starmer, questioning the appropriateness of the session and whether it constituted a breach of lockdown laws. Holden’s letter inquires, “Do you think it would be right for other members of the public to get acting lessons during Tier 4 restrictions?” He further challenges Starmer’s commitment to the principles of honesty and decency, suggesting that the incident reflects a “casual disregard for the law at a time when so many people were making such difficult sacrifices.”
Labour Party’s Response
A Labour Party spokesperson has defended the session, stating, “The rules were followed at all times.” It is understood that Starmer was working with a small team to prepare his response to the Brexit deal, with the session being recorded by a TV camera. Supporters argue that the coaching was a necessary component of his professional responsibilities, thereby justifying the in-person meeting under the guidelines in place at the time.
Background on Leonie Mellinger
Leonie Mellinger, a classically trained actress and communications skills coach, has been instrumental in refining Starmer’s public speaking abilities since 2017. Her coaching has been credited with helping him transition from a legal background to a more effective political communicator. Mellinger’s guidance has been particularly valuable in enhancing Starmer’s delivery and public persona during critical moments in his political career.
Comparisons to Previous Incidents
This is not the first time Starmer’s actions during the pandemic have come under scrutiny. In April 2021, he faced criticism over the so-called “Beergate” incident, where he and Deputy Leader Angela Rayner were photographed drinking beer and eating takeaway during a campaign meeting in Durham. A police investigation concluded that no rules were broken, as the gathering was deemed to be within the regulations for work-related meetings.
Ongoing Debate
The current allegations have reignited debates over the interpretation and application of lockdown rules, especially concerning what constitutes essential work. Critics argue that granting key worker status to a voice coach may have been an overreach, while supporters maintain that effective communication is a critical aspect of political leadership, particularly during times of crisis.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether further investigations will be initiated or if additional information will come to light regarding the decision-making processes behind the session. The incident underscores the challenges and complexities leaders faced in adhering to public health guidelines while fulfilling their professional duties during the pandemic.
