Backbench scepticism is a vital part of our democracy. But defending it should not mean justifying the appalling – or simply wrong.
Illustrating and exposing the influence of the lobbyocracy is far more difficult – and controversial – than creating a funky spreadsheet.
Because we weren’t client-driven, it was much easier for us to give internal advice which might be unpopular with our bosses.
But adds that the former PM has “himself conceded that with hindsight, if he had his time again, he wouldn’t have texted Rishi Sunak.
P.S: It’s early days in the Greensill affair. But the people we elect don’t always seem to be in charge.
The patent absurdity of a Lobbying Act which excludes the majority of lobbyists means that it simply will not last.
This should apply to central and local government. Also those organisations funded by taxpayers.
Cleaning up the state won’t be a quick and easy task. But if Boris Johnson doesn’t grasp the nettle, it will certainly come back to sting.
Parliament is struggling to retain senior figures. New peers should be chosen on their ability to raise the calibre of debate.
Protecting our open society against threats from authoritarian states is an essential battle. We must not lose.
How two factions of self-proclaimed professional influencers are painting themselves into ever-tighter corners.
From ‘fake news’ to micro-targeting, crowd-funding to data rights, we explore the key areas of focus for an overdue review of the rules of our democracy.
It’s not just about Brexit – it’s deeper and longer-standing than that. Ironically, relations would improve if they each a bit more combative.
Prioritising large over small, or current businesses over future businesses, would hurt workers, consumers, taxpayers, investors and the nation.
They must also rediscover the interests of the consumer – and be better at engaging working class voters on social issues.
Because we weren’t client-driven, it was much easier for us to give internal advice which might be unpopular with our bosses.