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In a startling revelation, Varun Chandra, a key adviser to Keir Starmer, has engaged in a series of undisclosed meetings with high-ranking executives from major US technology firms, including Google, Apple, and Meta. These discussions, which occurred between October 2024 and October 2025, have sparked significant concerns about the transparency of lobbying practices within the UK government, particularly as the country seeks to enhance its economic ties with Silicon Valley.
A Web of Secrecy
Chandra, who was appointed as chief business adviser to the Prime Minister shortly after Labour’s election victory in 2024, has been instrumental in shaping trade negotiations, particularly regarding artificial intelligence investments. His role expanded earlier this year to include responsibilities as a US trade envoy, yet his interactions with corporate leaders have largely remained in the shadows, shielded from public scrutiny due to the lack of mandatory disclosure for political advisers.
The meetings, which were only uncovered through a lengthy freedom of information request process, reveal a troubling pattern of Chandra facilitating connections between tech executives and top government officials. Notably, he reportedly offered to arrange direct meetings between these executives and Starmer, reflecting a concerning intertwining of political influence and corporate interests.
Navigating Regulatory Waters
Amidst the government’s push for AI-driven economic growth, Chandra’s meetings often centred on discussions of regulatory reform and investment opportunities. With commitments from US tech giants to inject £150 billion into the UK economy, the stakes are high. However, reports have emerged suggesting that some of these investments may be overblown, with existing projects being misrepresented as new ventures.
The nature of these discussions raises questions about the potential impact of corporate lobbying on public policy. In particular, Chandra’s consultations with Meta’s vice
