What's happened
Labour's former thinktank, Labour Together, employed APCO Worldwide to investigate journalists covering its funding, including possible sources of leaks or illegal hacking. The investigation was linked to internal reports and allegations of surveillance, raising questions about political tactics and transparency.
What's behind the headline?
The revelations about Labour Together's hiring of APCO Worldwide to investigate journalists highlight a troubling trend of political entities engaging in covert surveillance and information gathering. The fact that APCO's reports identified journalists and their sources, and suggested possible illegal hacking, indicates a shift towards aggressive, and potentially unethical, tactics in political opposition research.
This story exposes how political organizations may be crossing ethical boundaries, blurring the lines between legitimate investigation and covert manipulation. The involvement of high-level figures like Morgan McSweeney and Josh Simons, both of whom held influential roles, suggests a systemic approach rather than isolated incidents.
The timing of these disclosures, amid ongoing scrutiny of political funding and transparency, will likely intensify calls for accountability. The potential use of foreign hacking or leaks from regulatory bodies raises serious legal and security concerns, which could have wider implications for political integrity and public trust.
Looking ahead, this story will likely fuel debates over political surveillance, the ethics of opposition research, and the transparency of party funding. It may also prompt investigations into the legality of such activities, with possible repercussions for Labour and its senior figures. The story underscores the importance of safeguarding journalistic independence and the rule of law in political processes.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Labour's thinktank, Labour Together, hired APCO Worldwide to investigate journalists and sources, with claims of illegal hacking and leaks from the Electoral Commission. The Guardian details how APCO's reports identified journalists and suggested foreign hacking as a source of leaked funding information. Both outlets highlight the involvement of figures like Morgan McSweeney and Josh Simons, raising questions about political surveillance and ethics. The Guardian also notes the broader context of funding disclosures and political strategy, emphasizing the potential legal and reputational risks for Labour. Contrasting perspectives from these sources focus on the legality and ethics of the investigation, with The Independent emphasizing the political implications and The Guardian exploring the security concerns involved.
How we got here
Labour Together, a thinktank closely allied with Labour leader Keir Starmer, has a history of funding issues, including late donation reports and fines. The recent revelations connect the thinktank's activities to a broader controversy involving political figures and alleged covert investigations into journalists, with ties to Labour's internal strategy and funding disclosures.
Go deeper
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APCO Worldwide is an independent global public affairs and strategic communications consultancy. With more than 600 employees in 35 worldwide locations, it is also the second largest independently owned PR firm in the United States.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Morgan James McSweeney (born 19 April 1977) is an Irish political strategist for the British Labour Party. He served as Downing Street Chief of Staff under Prime Minister Keir Starmer from October 2024 until his resignation in February 2026. A close colle