Prime Minister Andy Burnham accepted three tickets to Everton's directors' lounge for a match in August, valued at £677. The entry in the MPs' register of interests shows Burnham, a long-time Everton supporter, attended the Premier League home game against Crystal Palace on 22 August with his wife and daughter. Everton won that match 1-0, with the only goal scored in the 84th minute.
Burnham was pictured at the game at the Hill-Dickinson Stadium. The tickets provided access to the exclusive directors' lounge area. This disclosure comes amid ongoing public scrutiny of politicians accepting hospitality from football clubs.
The registration highlights the intersection of high-profile political support and club access. Burnham's visit to the stadium last week was for a different purpose, to welcome Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for Everton's Carabao Cup tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers. That visit included bilateral meetings at the ground.
Everton's current strong form provides the backdrop for such high-level interest. The team sits seventh in the Premier League with nine points from five games, unbeaten this season. Their recent 1-0 win over Ipswich Town extended an unbeaten run. The team has conceded only 3 goals in those five league games.
The club's next challenge is an away fixture against Hull City on 11 October. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures page. Burnham's declared acceptance of the tickets is a matter of public record, with no further details on payment disclosed.
This story first appeared at irishnews.com
