Downing Street has defended a flight to Manchester to collect Andy Burnham after the journey prompted criticism over whether it represented value for money.
The trip involved travelling to Manchester to collect Mr Burnham. Some people questioned the need for the flight and raised concerns about the cost of the arrangement.
No 10 said the decision had taken account of security considerations, the expense involved and wider operational requirements. It did not provide further details in the supplied material about the journey or the reasons it was considered necessary.
The response comes after the flight attracted public attention and a backlash centred on its value for money. Downing Street’s position is that the relevant practical and security factors were considered before the trip took place.
