Golden Arrow Communications Limited
Golden Arrow is a London-based lobbying firm. The company is still active (according to Companies House), although its website is 'under construction' (early 2010).[1]
Scandal
In early 2007, Golden Arrow lobbyists Ivan Henderson, a former Labour MP and David Jamieson, a former transport minister were secretly recorded (by the Sunday Times) claiming that two government ministers, Stephan Ladyman and Gerry Sutcliffe were helping their business – lobby firm Golden Arrow - by providing them with sensitive information. Henderson was taped saying:
- “Every time I e-mail him [Ladyman], he comes right back . . . He says ‘Ivan, this is what the score is’. He has never turned me down yet. He has gone over the top really. It is a bit dodgy sometimes.”
Ladyman admitted he was “friends” with his former colleague. According to Sunday Times, Jamieson has not sought approval from the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACOBA) to take up the lobbyists position (as former ministers are supposed to do).[2]
Profile
Amongst the company's specialities were 'Public procurement and bid support - public affairs has become increasingly important in close fought procurement bids. We have extensive experience in helping bidders to develop and present their case to decision-takers.'[3]
Former staff
- Andrew Sharp, founder. Labour Party's Director of the Northern and Yorkshire Regions, where he played a leading role in the General Election campaigns of 1992 and 1997. Following promotion to Labour’s national headquarters, Andrew successfully advised senior Government ministers, MPs, business organisations and local government on a range of public policy issues.[4]
- David Jamieson, MP for 13 years and former Transport Minister in the Labour Government between 2001 and 2005.[5]
- Ivan Henderson. Former Labour MP
- Andrew Pakes, prospective Labour candidate for Milton Keynes North[6]
- Ian Woodcroft
Clients
Lobbying clients listed in 2009:[7] National Express Group | West of England Partnership
Contact
http://www.goldenarrowcomms.com
References
- ↑ Golden Arrow Communications website accessed Jan 2010
- ↑ http://www.spinwatch.org/content/view/4112/9/
- ↑ Our services, accessed 21 January 2008
- ↑ Golden Arrow website, accessed Feb 2009
- ↑ Golden Arrow website, accessed Feb 2009
- ↑ Andrew Pakes website
- ↑ [APPC register], to Nov 2008
