Because the July election, Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of overseeing a “two-tier financial system” with many civil servants working from residence extra.

Division for Enterprise and Commerce (DBT) officers purchased 199 laptop display screens below the House Working Tools Coverage between July and November at a value of £31,898.92 to taxpayers.

This compares to 127 screens within the 5 months earlier than the election for a price ticket of £21,667.23.

Tory MP Andrew Griffith mentioned: “As personal companies up and down the nation scrimp and sweat within the wake of Labour’s price range, officers on the Division for Enterprise are making themselves snug working from residence in ever-increasing numbers.

“Discuss a two-tier financial system – you couldn’t make it up.”

DBT has purchased 353 screens this yr below the house working scheme for £58,349.34.

Forty-five had been purchased in November, 62 in October and 39 in September.

This compares to between 20 and 30 for every month earlier than the election.

UK civil servants are anticipated to spend a minimum of 60% of their time within the workplace or on official enterprise.

Nevertheless, experiences have prompt that some ministers take a “versatile and pragmatic” method to the rule.

In October, the Cupboard Workplace mentioned: “Steering on workplace attendance will stay in place, with most civil servants anticipated to spend a minimum of 60% of their time at a Authorities constructing or on official enterprise, comparable to visiting stakeholders.

“Heads of Departments throughout authorities have agreed that the Civil Service is finest in a position to ship for the folks it serves by taking a constant method to in-office working.

“Heads of Division have agreed that 60% minimal workplace attendance for many employees continues to be one of the best steadiness of working for the Civil Service. Senior managers will proceed to be anticipated to be within the workplace greater than 60% of the time.”

DBT has been contacted for remark.