.According to David Lammy, clothing donations were received by Sir Keir Starmer and his spouse Lady Victoria so they may "look their best" to represent the United Kingdom.

When questioned about the donations, the foreign secretary pointed out that other nations had substantial budgets for leaders' attire that were sponsored by taxpayers.

It came after reports Sir Keir may have broken parliamentary rules in failing to declare clothes bought for his wife by Labour donor Lord Waheed Alli.

Lammy told Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg: “US presidents and first ladies have a huge budget, paid for by the taxpayer, so that they look their best on behalf of the US people."

In fact, the US first lady does not have access to a specific clothing budget - and many have shared frustration at the cost of staying fashionable in the White House.

So what are the rules around clothes for the world stage?

In some countries, taxpayers contribute to living expenses for their leaders - and this can include clothing. 

US presidents have an expenses budget of some $50,000 (£38,000), which can be used to purchase clothing and other items, on top of an annual salary of $400,000. 

But the US president’s spouse - historically, always a first lady - does not receive an annual salary or fixed expenses budget, though they have paid staff and an office. 

That's despite the US first lady’s fashion choices attracting immense scrutiny and attention. 

Notable examples have included Melania Trump’s Zara jacket emblazoned with “I REALLY DON’T CARE, DO U?”, on a visit to a migrant detention centre, and the striking scarlet Alexander McQueen dress worn by Michelle Obama while meeting former Chinese President Hu Jintao.