JP fails to declare cowboy boots

WESTMINSTER’S sleaze watchdog has extended his inquiry into John Prescott’s stay at a US billionaire’s ranch to look at allegations that Britain’s Deputy Prime Minister failed to declare gifts he received while there.

Reports have suggested that Mr Prescott accepted a Stetson hat, a pair of leather cowboy boots and a belt with a buckle bearing his initials “JP” from Philip Anschutz while he stayed on his Colorado ranch last July.

Conservatives have alleged that the visit created a conflict of interest because Mr Anschutz is currently bidding to open Britain’s first super-casino at the Millennium Dome in south-east London.

The development came as it emerged that Mr Prescott had accepted free tickets to a football match during a visit to Mr Anschutz’s Home Depot Centre in 2004.