Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has firmly denied any awareness of an investigation into journalists that was allegedly commissioned and funded by the prominent think tank Labour Together. Speaking during a visit to a community centre in London on Monday, Starmer stated he "didn't know anything about" the probe, which has sparked significant controversy.
Allegations of a Covert Investigation
The allegations, first reported by The Sunday Times, claim that the public relations firm Apco Worldwide was paid £36,000 in 2023 to conduct an investigation into journalists who were reporting on Labour Together's funding. At the time, the think tank was under scrutiny for failing to declare more than £700,000 in donations, a story that had been covered by various media outlets.
Links to Current Government Figures
Notably, Labour Together was run in 2023 by Josh Simons, who is now the Labour MP for Makerfield and serves as a Cabinet Office minister. This connection has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and the transparency of operations within the think tank. The Democracy For Sale newsletter had previously published similar allegations, adding to the growing calls for an official inquiry.
Starmer's Response and Cabinet Office Action
When pressed about the accusations, Sir Keir Starmer confirmed that the claims "absolutely" need to be examined. He announced that the Cabinet Office will be tasked with establishing the facts surrounding the alleged investigation. "I didn't know anything about this investigation, and it absolutely needs to be looked into, so the Cabinet Office will be establishing the facts," Starmer emphasised during his public address.
The Prime Minister's swift move to order a Cabinet Office investigation underscores the seriousness with which the government is treating these allegations. This probe aims to clarify the extent of Labour Together's involvement, the nature of Apco Worldwide's work, and whether any improper activities occurred that could undermine journalistic integrity or political transparency.
Broader Implications for Political Accountability
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the relationship between political think tanks, funding transparency, and media freedom. As the Cabinet Office begins its inquiry, stakeholders across the political spectrum will be watching closely to see how the findings might impact public trust and regulatory frameworks governing such organisations.
