The Liberal Democrats have called for Taylor Swift to be given a major honor after boosting the British economy with her latest tour.
In an official press release, the third party of British politics called for the US superstar to be granted Freedom of the City of London.
Freedom of the City of London is an award dating back to the 13th century, and bestowed upon those who deserve recognition for their contributions to London or public life, or to celebrate significant achievements.
If the Lib Dems were to get their wish, as well as the status associated with the title, Ms Swift would also be allowed to herd sheep across London Bridge without paying a toll.
In their demand, the Liberal Democrats pun that Ms Swift should receive the honor “for filling blank space” in the British economy – an apparent reference to the singer's 2014 album.
Estimates suggest that the British leg of Ms Swift's tour may have boosted the British economy by nearly £1 billion thanks to tourism, and London's economy alone by £300 million.
In addition, the LibDems have now tabled a motion in the Commons to recognize the “cultural and economic impact of the Eras Tour nationally”.
The party argues that Ms Swift's impact on the economy “will provide a remedy to the delicate state the Conservative government has left it in through years of neglect and the legacy of Liz Truss' mini-budget”.
Barclay's bank themselves have estimated that ticket purchases, travel, accommodation, outfits and other expenses including merchandise could see Ms Swift responsible for £997 million being injected into the British economy, something Rachel Reeves will be delighted by.
In the United States, estimates suggest Ms. Swift's Eras Tour stimulated their economy by a whopping $5.7 billion.
The LibDems quip: “Taylor Swift will have performed a total of 15 shows in the UK this (not so cruel) summer, stimulating the local economy in Liverpool, Edinburgh, Cardiff and London, as well as across the entire nation”.
They continue: “Additionally, the Liberal Democrats believe her work securing streaming royalties for other artists signed to the same record label as her and the huge donations she has made to food banks in London during her Eras Tour stops qualifies Taylor Swift to receive the Freedom of the City.”
Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesperson Sarah Olney decided to comment: “We were enchanted to welcome Taylor Swift and the Eras Tour to the UK. Her decorated 18 year career has been one of endless philanthropy and using her platform to bring reforms to the music industry, all while releasing chart topping hits and breaking record after record.”
“But Taylor Swift is now on track to achieve her most impressive feat yet; patching part of the blank space the Conservative government left in the British economy after years of neglect.
“The Eras Tour has provided hours of joy to the thousands of fans attending the shows, but the real legacy of Taylor Swift's tour will be the lifeline it provides to our economy, so it is only right that she be recognized with London's highest honor. “
Ms Swift was approached for comment.