# Lord Sainsbury

# David Sainsbury — Labour's Biggest Individual Donor

**Full name:** David Sainsbury, Baron Sainsbury of Turville
**Approx total donated (2024-2026):** £8-10 million
**Source of wealth:** Former chairman of Sainsbury's supermarket chain; family fortune estimated at £1.5 billion
**Why they donate:** Long-time Labour supporter, science and innovation advocate, served as Science Minister under Tony Blair. Supports Labour as the most viable party for economic competence and public service investment.
**Controversies:** Previous donations to Labour caused scrutiny over potential policy influence; his role as a Labour peer raises questions about donations and legislative influence. In 2024, his donations continued to be questioned in the context of Labour's ties to wealthy individuals.

## Notes

- Consistently Labour's largest single individual donor for decades
- Owns the Sainsbury family's political giving — split with other family members who donate to Tories
- Has funded Labour's general election campaigns heavily, including £5m+ to the 2024 campaign
- Also funds Labour-aligned think tanks and policy groups