The Labour party has been caught in a backlash from some of its own MPs who believe they are under orders to attend “important” summer parties hosted by private firms.
MPs say they are facing “troubling” demands from top party officials to attend receptions that are being financially supported by firms including housebuilders and cleaning contractors.
One source told The Standard that some of the companies “appear to be expecting a lot of MPs” to attend the sponsored events.
The source said MPs had not been told how much the parties would generate for the party’s coffers.
“None of us know how much they are paying for this access but the most recent [invitations feel like they] demand our attendance, which is really troubling.”
One London MP received an invitation to the “London PLP [Parliamentary Labour Party] Summer Reception for the Parliamentary Labour Party”.
This is due to take place on September 1 at a venue yet to be announced and is being sponsored by Vistry, which describes itself as the country’s largest homebuilder.
“This will be an opportunity for members of the PLP and frontbenchers to relax in a private setting with senior party figures as we return from the Summer Recess,” the emailed invitation stated.
“These bi-annual events are important for the party, so your attendance would be greatly appreciated. Please note, this event is for members of the Parliamentary Labour Party only.”
But it is understood that Labour has benefited from commercial partnerships for events for some time, including for Parliamentary Labour Party receptions. Such arrangements are not regarded as unusual, The Standard understands.
A spokeswoman for the Vistry Group said the issues raised by The Standard would be discussed with the Labour party.
She said: “The PLP event is part of our ongoing engagement with public officials, in line with our unique partnerships model that helps deliver the UK’s housing needs – including in key regions like London.”
The Vistry Group includes Bovis Homes, Countryside Homes and Linden Homes. The firm works with local authorities, Homes England and the private sector and provides affordable homes, private rented homes and private homes for sale.
The Standard was told that there were “multiple versions” of similar invitations for MPs representing different regions of the country.
Labour MPs representing constituencies in the North West have been invited to a reception hosted by Mitie, the cleaning contractor.
This is due to be held on July 15 at the Shard, in London Bridge.
Mitie is a Government contractor with a workforce of 76,000 people. The firm also provides “executive protection services” to many MPs through its specialist close protection officers.
The Labour party declined to comment.
