Today in Focus Undercover in the House of Lords
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Feb 26, 2025 Henry Dyer, an investigative reporter at The Guardian, dives into a scandal involving a Labour peer's cash-for-access offers to ministers. He reveals ethical issues surrounding sponsorship deals that raise questions about transparency and privilege in politics. The discussion also touches on the influence of familial connections in housing policy and the potential misuse of power. Dyer calls for reform in the House of Lords, emphasizing the need for cultural change within the political landscape.
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Cash-for-Access Offer
- Lord David Evans of Watford's son, Richard Evans, offered access to government ministers in exchange for a £25,000 sponsorship deal.
- This deal involved a networking event at Parliament and a separate meeting with ministers.
Lord Evans's Background
- Lord Evans became a peer under Tony Blair after building a successful printing business that served the Labour Party.
- Despite being a peer for years, he rarely contributed to parliamentary debates.
Event Advertisement
- Richard Evans advertised an event in the House of Lords for £600 per ticket.
- He also sought sponsorships of up to £25,000.