Most people will never experience the ease and luxury of flying on a private jet.

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The excessive cost is the hallmark of the super-rich. But for good reasons, we generally support the Prime Minister flying like a tech titan on official business.

That support falls away if the privilege is abused and the PM takes the piss out of taxpayers. That is why Andy Burnham’s cheeky Manchester pick-up on his way to Antigua has generated so much anger.

Why do private flights make sense? Security is paramount, and moving the PM easily from car to private terminal straight onto the tarmac reduces security risks for the Metropolitan Police protection team that secures his every step. A flight where every person on board is invite-only and can be thoroughly vetted adds another layer of safety.

Time is the second factor. The PM’s time is a precious commodity and his diary management must squeeze........

© LBC