Musk’s $100m to Farage will break our democracy

The article discusses the potential impact of Elon Musk's reported $100 million donation to Nigel Farage's Reform party on British democracy. It highlights the vulnerabilities in UK election laws that allow foreign influence through donations, criticizing both the Labour and Conservative parties for their inaction on reforming these laws. The piece calls for measures such as capping political donations, stricter reporting requirements, and strengthening the Electoral Commission to protect the integrity of UK elections. The article warns of the existential risk posed by unchecked foreign influence and advocates for urgent reforms to prevent the capture of British democracy by vested interests.

Labour donor's private healthcare interests revealed

Martin Taylor, a major Labour donor, has been criticized for his hedge fund's investments in HCA Healthcare, a private healthcare giant, amidst the NHS crisis. Taylor has donated over £5.5m to Labour and its affiliates since Keir Starmer's leadership began. Critics argue that Labour should not accept donations from those profiting from the NHS, suggesting a cap on donations to prevent undue influence. Taylor's spokesperson claims his political views do not influence investment decisions. The article highlights concerns over Labour's relationship with the financial sector and private healthcare interests.

Peter Mandelson’s lobbying firm behind think tank pushing PFI 2.0

Peter Mandelson's lobbying firm, Global Counsel, is linked to the Future Governance Forum, a think tank advocating for the reintroduction of private finance initiatives (PFI) in the UK. The think tank, with ties to Labour, is pushing for controversial PFI deals to finance public infrastructure, despite past criticisms of PFI's cost-effectiveness. The article highlights potential conflicts of interest, as Global Counsel's staff hold positions in both the lobbying firm and the think tank. Transparency campaigners express concerns over the blurred lines between lobbying and policy influence. The National Audit Office's report on conflicts of interest in the UK government underscores the ongoing challenges in managing such issues.

DUP MP Sammy Wilson under investigation over north Cyprus lobbying

The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards is investigating DUP MP Sammy Wilson for allegedly breaching lobbying rules by not declaring an interest after a trip to Northern Cyprus. The investigation follows reports that Wilson, along with other MPs, failed to disclose their interests when asking parliamentary questions supporting Northern Cyprus. The trips were organized by Freedom and Fairness for Northern Cyprus and coordinated by College Green. The probe was initiated after a complaint from Ian Blackford of the SNP, highlighting concerns over political transparency and ethics in foreign-funded trips.

Dark money and Donald Trump's British fan club

The article explores the influence of dark money and Donald Trump's connections within British politics, focusing on figures like Nigel Farage and organizations such as the Conservative Party and Tufton Street thinktanks. It highlights the financial ties between US conservative donors and UK political groups, emphasizing the potential impact on British politics. The piece criticizes the influence of Trumpist ideologies and calls for reform in UK electoral laws to prevent anonymous political donations.

A huge victory for America’s oligarchy

Donald Trump's election as the 47th president of the United States is portrayed as a victory for oligarchs and vested interests, with significant influence from figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. The article highlights the role of dark money and corporate influence in US politics, criticizing the weakening of traditional media and the rise of disinformation. It discusses the implications of Trump's presidency for various industries, including oil and tobacco, and raises concerns about the erosion of democracy in the US and potentially the UK. The piece is highly critical of the Republican Party and its ties to wealthy donors and oligarchs.

Revealed: Trump campaigns received $45m from Tufton Street donors

An investigation reveals that Donald Trump and US Republican campaigns have received over $45 million from donors linked to UK right-wing think tanks, known as 'Tufton Street' outfits. These organizations, including the Institute of Economic Affairs and the Global Warming Policy Foundation, are funded by oil and gas firms and prominent Tory donors. British American Tobacco and other major donors have contributed significantly to both Tufton Street and Republican campaigns. The article highlights the influence of dark money in politics, with critics like Labour MP Clive Lewis condemning the alignment of Trump and Tufton Street's policies. The investigation underscores the need for stricter electoral laws to prevent corporate interests from swaying democratic processes in the US and UK.

Dark money, a secretive cult and the US election

The article explores the influence of Opus Dei, a secretive Catholic sect, in US politics, particularly its financial support for Donald Trump and the Republican Party. It highlights the role of Leonard Leo, an Opus Dei acolyte, in channeling dark money to influence the US Supreme Court and support Trump's candidacy. The text also discusses the broader implications of Opus Dei's political agenda and its penetration into Washington, D.C.'s conservative Catholic ranks.

Ministers urged to cut ties with P&O Ferries owner over links to Russia

Calls have been made for the UK to reassess its financial ties with DP World due to its business dealings in Russia, particularly its involvement in the northern sea route project with Rosatom. Despite DP World's claims of not having active operations in Russia, its agreements with Rosatom have drawn criticism from Ukrainian officials and think tanks. The controversy is compounded by DP World's past actions with its subsidiary, P&O Ferries, which faced backlash for firing staff and exploiting legal loopholes. The UK government is under pressure to reconsider its stance on DP World's involvement in UK projects.

BREAKING: Peter Mandelson’s lobbying firm under investigation

The UK's lobbying regulator is investigating Peter Mandelson's firm, Global Counsel, for potentially inaccurate lobbying disclosures related to the Qatar Free Zones Authority. The investigation follows revelations of unregistered lobbying activities aimed at linking UK freeports with Gulf trade zones. Spotlight on Corruption has called for reforms to prevent foreign interference in UK politics. Critics question Mandelson's political influence, while lobbying bodies advocate for stricter regulations. The investigation highlights ongoing concerns about the effectiveness of current lobbying laws.