The Independent is committed to on-ground reporting, covering crucial issues like reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech. Donations help provide unbiased journalism accessible to all, without paywalls. The publication is dedicated to factual reporting during pivotal times in areas like American politics. Recently revealed files showed former Prime Minister Tony Blair was eager to keep gifts from notable musicians, including a guitar from Bono, illustrating an intersection of politics and personal interests during his tenure.
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair was reportedly keen to hold onto a guitar gifted by U2 frontman Bono, newly released official files reveal. The documents, from the National Archives in Kew, west London, show Mr Blair was eager to use the rules on ministerial gifts to acquire the instrument from the Live Aid campaigner once he left office.
No 10 officials suggested that the prime minister might want to take the same approach when it came to a white Fender Stratocaster, worth 2,500, from the Canadian singer Bryan Adams.
Mr Blair, who was prime minister from 1997 to 2007, was allowed to accept gifts worth over 140, but had to pay for them himself, less the 140 difference.
He did, however, question whether he would have to pay 'the full purchase price'.
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