PM orders ethics investigation into minister over Labour Together claims
BBC World
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Prime Minister has ordered an ethics investigation into Cabinet Office Minister Josh Simons following allegations that Labour Together, a think tank linked to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, commissioned APCO Worldwide to investigate journalists. The report, paid for by Labour Together at least £30,000, reportedly included claims about the Jewish beliefs and ideological positions of journalists like Gabriel Pogrund, as well as ties to Russia's strategic interests. Simons, who previously ran the think tank, has denied wrongdoing, stating he asked APCO to investigate a "suspected illegal hack" and described claims of targeting journalists as "nonsense."
The investigation was initially handled by the Cabinet Office but was later referred to Sir Laurie Magnus, the PM's independent adviser on ministerial standards. However, critics argue that the matter should have been escalated earlier due to its potential implications for press freedom and public trust in government. Shadow chancellor Alex Burghart accused APCO's report of smearing journalists and called for Simons' suspension during the investigation, while Labour MPs have welcomed the probe but pressed for a broader inquiry into Labour Together's activities.
Sir Keir Starmer has distanced himself from the allegations, emphasizing the importance of protecting press freedom. The controversy raises questions about the ethics of political interference in journalism and highlights concerns over potential misuse of public funds to silence critics. As the investigation unfolds, it could have significant implications for both Simons' ministerial career and the credibility of Labour Together's operations.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026