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.

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.

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.

Lobbyists have funneled £700,000 into all-party parliamentary groups (APPGs) in the UK, despite new rules aimed at increasing transparency and reducing foreign influence. Fossil fuel companies, the vaping industry, and weapons manufacturers are among the major contributors. The Carbon Capture and Storage Association, backed by major fossil fuel firms, has financially supported the APPG on Carbon Capture. The vaping industry has also heavily invested in APPGs, raising concerns about undue influence. Transparency campaigners and organizations like Transparency International UK and Greenpeace UK have expressed concerns about the influence of industry funders on these groups, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability.

The article discusses the UK government's cautious approach in handling relations with DP World, the Dubai-based owner of P&O Ferries, following the controversial sacking of 800 ferry workers in 2022. It reveals that UK ministers were advised not to mention the P&O incident in meetings with DP World, highlighting the company's significant investment interests in the UK. Despite initial tensions, DP World's planned £1 billion investment in London's port is reportedly back on track. The article also notes the absence of Dubai trade unions at an upcoming UK investment summit, reflecting the UAE's ban on collective bargaining.

Kamella Hudson, a partner at consultancy FGS, has been working closely with Rachel Reeves, raising concerns about a conflict of interest as FGS lobbies for Shein, a Chinese fast fashion giant seeking a UK listing. The Labour Party, ahead of the general election, indicated support for Shein's UK listing despite controversies over the company's labor standards and tax practices. FGS's involvement with Reeves, including a £17,000 donation by seconding Hudson, has sparked debate over the influence of corporate lobbyists on government policy. The article highlights the need for transparency in political lobbying and the potential impact on public interest.

The article highlights a potential conflict of interest involving Rachel Reeves, the UK Chancellor, and her adviser from FGS Global, a firm representing Shein. Concerns are raised about Shein's use of a tax loophole and its labor standards. The Labour Party's stance on not closing the loophole is questioned, especially given FGS's connections. The article also notes that FGS has previously worked with other major companies and that Reeves's adviser, Hudson, played a significant role in her campaign. The piece underscores the need for transparency in government policy-making to avoid corporate influence.

Tony Blair is working as a consultant for Pasaca, the owner of Innova Medical Group, which secured over £4 billion in UK government contracts for Covid-19 tests. Innova's founder, Charles Huang, faces allegations of misappropriating funds and fraudulent transfers. Blair's involvement with Huang, despite not engaging in lobbying, raises questions about his judgment. The article highlights the controversy surrounding Innova's contracts and the legal disputes involving Huang, while Blair's institute claims due diligence was conducted on Huang.

Simon Kuper discusses his book 'Good Chaps' which explores the rise of political corruption in Britain, particularly focusing on the Tory Party's financial ties to autocracies and the lack of legal frameworks to prevent such practices. He contrasts the historical 'Good Chaps' ethos with the current political climate, highlighting the shift towards self-enrichment. Kuper suggests that the Labour Party, with its proposed Ethics and Integrity Commission, might initially be cleaner than the Tories, but warns of the temptations of dubious money. He emphasizes the public's frustration with political scandals and the potential for reform to restore trust in politics.

Julio Herrera Velutini, a Venezuelan banker, faces U.S. bribery charges and financial controversies involving his Puerto Rico-based bank, Bancrédito International Bank and Trust Corporation. The bank is under liquidation, and its art collection, valued at $22.5 million, is allegedly being inadequately preserved by Driven Administrative Services LLC. Herrera Velutini is also accused of bribing a former Puerto Rican governor, Wanda Vazquez Garced, to replace a financial regulator. The U.S. Department of Justice has charged him with conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud, while British politicians call for the Conservative Party to return his donations.