Democacy and Participation - Lobbyists

Question 1

Tobacco industry lobbyists – Success or Failure?

Answer 1

Failure. Despite intense lobbying, the government passed strong anti-smoking legislation, including the 2007 public smoking ban and plain packaging in 2016.

Question 2

Facebook (Meta) lobbyists – Success or Failure?

Answer 2

Partial success. Lobbyists delayed tougher online regulation for years. However, the Online Safety Act 2023 increased oversight of social media platforms.

Question 3

British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) – Success or Failure?

Answer 3

Some success. Lobbied for lower beer duty and COVID-19 support for pubs. Government introduced temporary tax cuts and grants during the pandemic.

Question 4

Greensill Capital lobbying scandal – Success or Failure?

Answer 4

Failure, with scandal. In 2021, it emerged that David Cameron lobbied ministers for Greensill Capital access to COVID loan schemes. Public backlash led to inquiries and criticism of lobbying transparency.

Question 5

Uber lobbyists – Success or Failure?

Answer 5

Success. Leaked “Uber Files” (2022) showed intense lobbying of UK ministers, including George Osborne. Helped Uber gain political access and delay regulation during expansion into the UK.

Question 6

British Soft Drinks Association – Success or Failure?

Answer 6

Failure. Opposed the 2018 Sugar Tax (Soft Drinks Industry Levy), but government went ahead. Public health aims won out over industry lobbying.

Question 7

Confederation of British Industry (CBI) – Success or Failure?

Answer 7

Traditionally influential. Helped shape government responses to Brexit and COVID. Influence declined after 2023 scandal involving internal misconduct.

Question 8

Trade Union lobbying (TUC) – Success or Failure?

Answer 8

Limited success under Conservative governments since 2010. Greater access under Labour governments. Currently lobbying for stronger workers’ rights under potential future Labour leadership.