Keir Starmer opens investigation into Josh Simons over targeting of reporters

The Guardian - World NewsEN 2 min read 100% complete by Henry DyerFebruary 23, 2026 at 04:02 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Keir Starmer has launched an investigation into Cabinet Office minister Josh Simons following accusations that he targeted journalists by falsely linking them to pro-Russian propaganda. The investigation, led by the independent adviser on ministerial standards, Laurie Magnus, stems from revelations that Simons, while running the Labour Together think tank, shared information with British intelligence officials about journalists, including alleged connections to a former advisor to Jeremy Corbyn suspected of Russian links. Simons is also under scrutiny for commissioning a PR company to investigate the sourcing behind a Sunday Times article questioning donations to Labour Together. Despite claiming concern over the PR company's report, emails show Simons later pressed officials to investigate the same journalist. The Cabinet Office had previously conducted an ethics inquiry into Simons, drawing criticism due to his ministerial role within the department.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

No 10 40% Sunday Times 50% Labour Together ×260% Cabinet Office ×370% Keir Starmer ×280% Josh Simons ×490%

Keywords

josh simons 100% investigation 90% keir starmer 80% journalists 70% cabinet office 70% ethics inquiry 60% russian propaganda 60% labour together 50% ministerial standards 50% pr company 40%