Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, is under scrutiny for allegedly treating the Royal Air Force (RAF) as his personal transportation service.
Flight records reveal that Shapps utilized military helicopters three times between January and February, raising questions about potential violations of ministerial rules.
Shapps’ Alleged ‘Britain’s Most Expensive Uber’
Criticism has been directed at Shapps for reportedly using RAF pilots to transport him to official engagements in Yorkshire, Manchester, and Plymouth.
The Defence Secretary’s helicopter rides have sparked comparisons to an extravagant “Britain’s most expensive Uber,” with concerns about the appropriateness of employing military resources for personal travel.
Ministerial Rules Scrutinized
The frontbencher’s use of RAF helicopters has prompted inquiries into whether Shapps has breached ministerial rules.
Critics argue that the ministerial code stipulates government-funded jets should only be utilized in urgent situations.
Labour’s shadow paymaster general, Jonathan Ashworth, emphasized the need for Shapps to provide evidence justifying the urgency of these specific instances.
RAF Helicopter Trips Detail
On January 11, a GZ100 chopper reportedly flew over 20 miles from Denham Airport to pick up Shapps, transporting him to Manchester and later to Preston for an official visit.
Similar helicopter trips occurred on February 2, flying Shapps to Plymouth, and on a recent occasion, transporting him to Yorkshire for a Cabinet meeting with the Prime Minister.
Shapps Defends Actions, Denies Rule Violation
Sources close to Shapps dismissed accusations of rule-breaking, labeling them as “nonsense.” Defending his actions, Shapps asserted that he was merely performing his job responsibilities and had not violated any codes.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson emphasized that the RAF’s provision of travel for senior ministers aligns with established rules and procedures outlined in the Ministerial Code available on the government’s official website.