The Cabinet Office is set to investigate allegations that a well-known Labour think-tank funded an inquiry into journalists covering its financial backing, as stated by Keir Starmer. The Prime Minister confirmed that the department will clarify the details of the investigation reportedly conducted by PR firm Apco Worldwide on behalf of Labour Together. Apco was compensated £30,000 for conducting the probe in 2023, during the tenure of Cabinet Office minister Josh Simons at the think-tank.

The firm was tasked with scrutinizing the “sourcing, funding, and origins” following reports on the think-tank’s failure to disclose over £700,000 in donations. The investigation was also said to have delved into the background of a specific journalist.

Addressing the accusations, Mr. Starmer remarked on Monday that a thorough Cabinet Office inquiry into the claims is warranted. He expressed his lack of prior knowledge about the investigation and emphasized the importance of investigating it to establish the truth.

Tech Secretary Liz Kendall highlighted the significance of press freedom when questioned about Mr. Simons’ dual roles as a minister within her department and the Cabinet Office. She stressed the necessity of safeguarding press freedom while acknowledging the ongoing investigations by regulatory bodies and the Cabinet Office.

Later, the Prime Minister’s spokesperson affirmed Mr. Starmer’s confidence in Mr. Simons and reiterated the critical role of press freedom in democracy. Alison Phillips, the current CEO of Labour Together, clarified the timing of the commissioned work and the reception of the report from Apco.

In an internal email to staff, Phillips expressed dismay at the reported scrutiny of journalists by investigators hired by Labour Together, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to maintaining high ethical standards.

Apco, in response to the allegations, emphasized its dedication to upholding organizational values and standards, pledging to conduct an internal review of the project and cooperate with relevant governance bodies for further investigation.

The chief executive of the Society of Editors voiced concern over the investigation of journalists carrying out their duties, emphasizing the importance of journalistic scrutiny in upholding democracy. She highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in politics to maintain public trust and protect journalists from undue scrutiny or intimidation.