Corruption in the UK is increasingly being recognized as a domestic issue, though it remains underreported in public discourse compared to overseas cases.
While Hansard often frames corruption in terms of international bribery—especially involving UK companies abroad—the reality is that UK-based corruption is growing in scale and impact, particularly in areas like money laundering, political donations from foreign autocrats, and public procurement fraud.
Money laundering through property and finance: The UK, especially London, is a global hub for illicit finance. The National Crime Agency estimates £100 billion in money laundering occurs annually in the UK, with vast sums flowing through property markets. Over 35,000 London property titles are held by shell companies in British Overseas Territories like the British Virgin Islands and Jersey—jurisdictions known for secrecy and weak transparency.
Political corruption and ‘pay for access’: A 2024 analysis by Simon Kuper highlights the near-total absence of laws governing political corruption in the UK. Politicians, especially within the Conservative Party, have accepted large donations from individuals linked to autocratic regimes—such as Russian oligarchs—without accountability. High-profile figures like Boris Johnson and David Cameron have been linked to such donors, with no legal consequences.
Public procurement scandals: During the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK government awarded billions in contracts without competition, often to firms with no track record. Some contracts cost £800 per protective overall, and several were issued to dormant companies linked to senior government figures—raising serious concerns about cronyism and systemic risk.
Institutional complacency: Despite strong anti-corruption legislation like the Bribery Act 2010 and tools like Unexplained Wealth Orders (UWOs), enforcement remains inconsistent. The UK has seen few prosecutions for foreign bribery despite being a global leader in anti-corruption law. The OECD has repeatedly criticized the UK for weak implementation and lack of accountability.
Structural issues: The UK’s lack of a codified constitution, combined with secrecy in offshore territories, allows for legal flexibility that benefits the wealthy. As noted by Transparency International, British territories act as “smuggling holes” for global corruption, enabling kleptocrats to launder stolen funds while shielding the UK government from blame.
In short, UK-based corruption is not absent—it is systemic, hidden, and often enabled by legal loopholes and political impunity. The focus on overseas corruption in Hansard reflects a long-standing narrative, but recent evidence shows that the UK is both a source and a sanctuary for global corruption.
Return to Bomb Alley 1982 – The Falklands Deception, by Paul Cardin
Introduction: In the heart of Wirral, at Thurstaston, a proposed solar complex development has sparked significant community concern and debate. This blog post explores the issues raised during a recent rally organised by the Wirral Residents Association, highlighting the potential impacts on the local environment, community, and the importance of collective action.
Main Content: Section 1: The Solar Complex Proposal At the center of the discussion is a massive solar complex proposed by Chint Solar, a Chinese multinational corporation with no local ties. Spanning 37 hectares, this project is equivalent to 38 football pitches and aims to provide 26 megawatts of energy. However, community representatives, including Paul Cardin, have voiced strong opposition, arguing that this installation would disrupt the scenic beauty and ecology of the area, particularly in the village of Thurstaston, which is renowned for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity.
Section 2: Community Concerns The community’s apprehension revolves around several key issues. Firstly, the solar complex would be situated on prime agricultural land, threatening local farming and wildlife habitats. Paul highlights that the area is home to protected species, including great crested newts and migratory birds, which could be adversely affected by the construction. Also highlighted is the fact that Chint Solar have omitted to mention Battery Energy Storage Systems in their initial application to Wirral Council.
The ecological ramifications are also alarming, as the introduction of solar panels could disrupt these species that have thrived in the area for centuries.
Section 3: Community Action and Support To combat these challenges, the Wirral Residents Association is mobilising local support. During an outreach day in West Kirby, they distributed leaflets and gathered overwhelming support from the public. Local councillors, including members from both the Conservative and Green parties, have also expressed their opposition to the solar complex, indicating a united front against the proposal. This collective action is crucial as it not only amplifies their voices but also ensures that the community’s concerns are taken seriously by decision-makers.
Conclusion: The proposed solar complex in Wirral has ignited a passionate debate about sustainable development and community rights. As local residents rally together to voice their concerns, it becomes clear that community engagement is essential in shaping the future of their environment. Key takeaways include the importance of protecting local ecosystems, the need for transparency from corporations and government bodies, and the power of collective action in advocating for sustainable and community-focused development.
REPRESENTATIVES OF CHINT GROUP HAVE STATED THAT A LAND DEAL HAS BEEN STRUCK AND THAT BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS WILL NOT BE USED AT THE THURSTASTON SOLAR COMPLEX
REPRESENTATIVES OF CHINT GROUP HAVE STATED THAT A LAND DEAL HAS BEEN STRUCK, AND BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS WILL NOT BE USED AT THE THURSTASTON SOLAR COMPLEX
Return to Bomb Alley 1982 – The Falklands Deception
From Paul Cardin, a Falklands Conflict veteran. This is a biting commentary, told from the heart. Also included is a 1982 diary, written on location. This book forms a forensic inquiry into several conflict-related mysteries that have never been addressed or resolved - even after 40 years.
Wirral In It Together 