House of Commons speaker has kept almost 300 gifts over past four years

Lindsay Hoyle, the UK Parliament's Speaker, has been known to retain over 300 gifts from foreign dignitaries, including alcohol, hampers, and personal belongings, often keeping them instead of donating to his residence or parliament. Despite declaring a voluntary list that includes items like 80 bottles of champagne and 26 ties, many gifts are shared with his team during visits. The Speaker's Office accepts all gifts as part of hosting international events but only if they contribute meaningfully to their collection. Hoyle, paid around £160,000 annually, continues to defend his spending habits while emphasizing his role in representing the UK both domestically and internationally.