Burnham’s pick for chief of staff led firm that advised BP, Apple and Amazon
Summary
Andy Burnham’s new chief of staff, James Purnell, previously led Flint Global, a lobbying firm that worked with major companies like BP, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft. Purnell has given up his shares and connections to the firm to avoid conflicts of interest after his appointment, but some people in Labour are worried about his lobbying background.Key Facts
- James Purnell was the chief executive of Flint Global, a lobbying company.
- Flint Global advised big companies including BP, Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Jaguar Land Rover, Uber, and Glencore.
- The firm works with governments on policy, regulation, and business competition.
- Purnell recently gave up his shares and access to Flint Global’s systems.
- Flint Global is majority owned by an investment firm called Cinven, based in Jersey.
- Labour members have concerns about Purnell’s lobbying ties and what this means for the party’s direction.
- Some views see Purnell’s appointment as a sign Labour will maintain ties to business interests.
- Green party leader Zack Polanski criticized the move, asking for transparency about Flint Global’s clients.
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