The British government on Wednesday denied pressuring police to provide star Taylor Swift with a special escort during her concerts in London in August, after her performances in Vienna were canceled due to a planned attack. -suicide.
According to the tabloid The Sun, the American singer benefited from a “VIP” escort, usually reserved for foreign heads of state or the royal family. Police officials initially opposed this protection but the Home Secretary and the Mayor of London intervened, writes the Sun.
The news about Taylor Swift’s security comes amid controversy over gifts received by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other Labor officials, including tickets to the star’s concerts. London Mayor Sadiq Khan also received tickets.
“I completely reject the notion that there was any wrongdoing or undue influence in this matter.”declared Culture Minister Lisa Nandy on the Sky News television channel. “When major events take place, whether in London or other parts of the UK, the Home Secretary (Yvette Cooper) is involved in discussions when there is a security risk”she added.
“I know she does not have the power, and would not use it, to insist that a person have high-level private security.”said Lisa Nandy. “This is an operational matter for the police, not the government”continued the minister. “The police made the decision”she concluded.
According to the Sun, the singer’s mother, who is also her manager, would have threatened to cancel the concerts in August if a police convoy was not set up between her hotel and Wembley stadium. A few days earlier, three concerts planned in Vienna were canceled after the revelation of a suicide bombing plan.
When questioned, the London police recalled that they were “operationally independent”. “Our decision is based on a thorough assessment of the threat and risk as well as the circumstances of each case”said a spokesperson. Faced with the controversy, Keir Starmer reimbursed nearly 3,400 pounds sterling (4,000 euros) for four Taylor Swift tickets offered by the Universal Music group and two by the Football Association.
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