Full Breakdown
Investigation Launched into Labour Think Tank's Alleged Smear Campaign Against Journalists
2/16/2026, 10:01:37 PM
Background & Context: The Rise of Labour Together
Labour Together, a think tank instrumental in Sir Keir Starmer's ascent to the Labour leadership, is under scrutiny following allegations that it commissioned a report to investigate journalists. This report, produced by the public relations firm APCO Worldwide, purportedly contained false claims linking journalists to a Russian conspiracy. The think tank, previously led by Morgan McSweeney, has faced criticism for its handling of funding disclosures, including failing to declare over £700,000 in donations.
Core Event: Allegations of Smear Tactics
The controversy erupted when it was revealed that Labour Together paid APCO £36,000 to investigate journalists from The Sunday Times and The Guardian, who were reporting on the think tank's funding. The report allegedly included deeply personal and false claims about journalist Gabriel Pogrund, suggesting he had ties to Russian interference. The findings were shared with senior Labour figures and even reached the intelligence agency GCHQ, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the investigation.
Official Statements & Responses
Sir Keir Starmer stated, “There will be a Cabinet Office investigation into the allegations. I didn’t know anything about this investigation, and it absolutely needs to be looked into.” Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasized the importance of press freedom, asserting, “We absolutely value the freedom of the press. It’s right this issue is being investigated by the relevant regulatory body and the Cabinet Office.” Meanwhile, Josh Simons, now a Cabinet Office minister, expressed surprise at the report's content, stating he had requested the removal of unnecessary information before it was passed to GCHQ.
Criticism & Opposition
The investigation has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Former Labour Chancellor John McDonnell called for an independent inquiry, labeling the actions as “unacceptable.” Conservative Party Chairman Kevin Hollinrake remarked on Labour Together's “worrying contempt for the free press,” while Liberal Democrat MP Lisa Smart condemned the smear tactics, calling them an “outrageous attack on our independent free press.” Additionally, Labour MP Stella Creasy expressed her shock at the revelations, labeling the actions as “shameful.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Cabinet Office is examining the situation, some sources indicate that the investigation may not be formal, as suggested by Liz Kendall. The Public Relations and Communications Association is also conducting a separate inquiry into the matter. There remains uncertainty regarding the extent of knowledge that senior Labour figures, including Starmer, had about the report's contents and the motivations behind commissioning it.
What's Next: Implications for Labour
The Cabinet Office investigation will seek to clarify who authorized the APCO report and how its findings were disseminated. As the inquiry unfolds, it could have significant implications for Labour's relationship with the press and its internal dynamics, particularly as Starmer navigates ongoing controversies surrounding his leadership. The outcome may also influence public perception of the party's commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations.
