For most people, the prospect of grabbing a John Lewis bargain is an exhilarating one.
But for Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his fiancee Carrie Symonds, a home full of the popular retailer’s homeware is apparently something from a bad dream.
It has emerged that the pair allegedly renovated the Downing Street flat to replace Theresa May’s “John Lewis furniture nightmare”, drafting in eco interior designer Lulu Lytle to transform their living space into a “high-society haven”.
The Electoral Commission has now launched a formal investigation into the funding of the No 11 refurbishment.
Labour’s shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth seemed baffled by the John Lewis claims when he appeared on Sky News.
He said: "We know he [Mr Johnson] wanted to upgrade his flat because he didn't think John Lewis furniture was good enough.
"I think John Lewis furniture is pretty good actually, pretty posh stuff.”
Social media users seem to be on the same page as Mr Ashworth, with some scarcely believing that anyone could be snobby about John Lewis, which has long since been regarded as relatively posh.
That’s why the retailer’s current 20 per cent off home sale has so many people talking.
Here are 10 John Lewis bargains that even Mr Johnson and Ms Symonds would be tempted by:
5. John Lewis & Partners Agra Cushion, £28
Someone somewhere decided that mustard is the interior colour of the season, so you can’t go wrong with this striking, geometric cushion design. Photo: John Lewis
6. Morris & Co. Pure Bachelor's Button Bedding, £52.50
No, this bedding isn’t specially designed for bachelors (perhaps that’s a gap in the market?). It’s named after the flower design that covers it. A posh-looking addition to any dull bedroom space - no “nightmares” here. Photo: John Lewis
7. John Lewis & Partners Aralia Duvet Cover Set, £30
You can tell John Lewis bedding is deliciously soft just by looking at it. Any attractive design is just an added bonus. Thankfully, this bedding set has both, with the exotic leaves promising to transport you to tropical climes. Photo: John Lewis
8. G Plan Vintage The Sixty Five Large 3 Seater Chaise End Sofa, £1,516
Imagine putting Netflix on, lying back and stretching your legs out on this sofa? The three-seater design looks seriously comfy, and there’s a whole host of colour options to suit your needs. Yes, even if you’re looking for that “high-society” vibe. Photo: John Lewis