New rule bars Governor General from lavish spending on clothes after $88K bill. Why it matters for you (and your money)

Rideau Hall’s new rule limits how much clothing spending the Governor General can charge to Canadian taxpayers, after public scrutiny of past allowances. In a letter to MPs referenced in the report, Governor General Louise Arbour’s Office says each Governor General will be reimbursed only for outfits worn at official functions where they represent the monarch and Canada, such as black-tie events or public ceremonies. The letter reportedly states that everyday casual or business wear must be covered by the Governor General. The change follows criticism tied to Mary Simon’s wardrobe purchases made between January 2024 and March 2025 and to a combined $88,000 in clothing expenses billed between 2017 and 2023 by Simon and predecessor Julie Payette. The policy arrives amid inflation pressures, including 3.2% CPI in May.