Thu, 09 Oct 2025

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 Sunak joins Microsoft and AI firm as paid adviser

The former prime minister has been told not to lobby the UK government by the appointments watchdog.
Rishi Sunak has taken on paid advisory roles at Microsoft and Anthropic, an artificial intelligence start-up. The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba) has ruled that Sunak must not lobby ministers on behalf of these companies. Sunak's part-time role at Microsoft will provide "high-level strategic perspectives" on geopolitical trends. At Anthropic, he will be expected to operate as an internal think tank, advising on AI-related matters. However, Acoba has expressed concerns about potential unfair access and influence within government due to his involvement with these companies. Acoba has also reminded Sunak that he must not advise on bidding for UK contracts or lobby the government for two years from his last day in ministerial office. In addition to his roles at Microsoft and Anthropic, Sunak will act as a paid advisor to Goldman Sachs. All proceeds from his new roles will be donated to The Richmond Project charity, which he founded with his wife. Sunak has stated that he aims to use his roles to ensure that technological advancements benefit society as a whole. He has also emphasized the importance of technology in shaping the future and improving lives.
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