Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, is making headlines for a move that’s raising some eyebrows.
Once, during his tenure as Labour leader, Miliband mocked Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron for hiring a photographer at taxpayers’ expense.
Back then, Miliband was quick to criticize the decision, and No 10 swiftly decided that the costs would be covered by the Conservative Party instead.
Fast forward to today, and Miliband is now looking to hire his own personal photographer, with taxpayers set to foot the bill for a £50,000 salary package.
A Desire for Better Image Control
The decision to bring on a personal photographer is a clear sign that Miliband is keen to take control of his public image.
One of his most infamous moments occurred in 2014 when he allowed photographers to snap him eating a bacon sandwich at New Covent Garden’s flower market.
The photo, meant to show him as a down-to-earth figure, ended up backfiring.
Instead of showing a relatable politician, the images went viral for all the wrong reasons, with Miliband appearing awkward and clumsy.
His advisers quickly intervened, taking the sandwich away, but the damage had already been done.
Following in the Footsteps of Others
Miliband’s decision isn’t entirely without precedent.
The tradition of senior ministers having their own photographers is relatively new in UK politics.
Last year, Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, made headlines when she became the first in her role to have a personal photographer, earning nearly £68,000.
This move drew accusations of hypocrisy, especially given her previous criticism of Boris Johnson’s use of a photographer while in office.
Back in 1997, Tony Blair’s attempt to hire a photographer as Prime Minister was blocked by his Cabinet Secretary, citing concerns about the use of public funds.
A Changing Political Landscape
David Cameron, after becoming Prime Minister in 2010, was given approval for an official photographer.
Miliband, ever the critic, called out this decision at Prime Minister’s Questions, questioning whether it was a wise move given the government’s austerity measures at the time.
However, after facing backlash over public perception, Cameron quickly announced that the cost of the photographer would no longer be covered by taxpayers.
Tory Criticism of Miliband’s Move
Miliband’s latest decision to advertise for a photographer comes as the UK government is preparing for potential public spending cuts, with the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, urging ministers to brace for tighter budgets.
Despite claims from Miliband’s department that the photographer would work for all ministers and not just him, the timing of the announcement has caused some political figures to criticize the move.
Richard Holden, the shadow paymaster general, pointed out that Miliband was once vocal about the issue when David Cameron hired a photographer.
Tory sources have also weighed in, accusing Miliband of practicing a “do as I say, not as I do” approach.
Public Reaction and the Irony of It All
As the advertisement for the new photographer role makes waves, the public’s reaction remains divided.
While Miliband may be aiming to improve his image, critics are quick to point out the irony of his actions, given his previous stance against similar decisions.
Whether the role will be as controversial as the bacon sandwich moment remains to be seen.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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