Key Starmer adviser held 16 undisclosed meetings with top US tech bosses
A No 10 business aide reportedly discussed regulatory changes and AI with executives from Google, Meta, and Apple during confidential sessions
Varun Chandra, a high-level business aide to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, conducted 16 undisclosed meetings with senior executives from prominent US technology companies. Chandra is considered an influential figure within the administration, maintaining close ties to both the Prime Minister and the Chancellor. These confidential discussions, which occurred over a twelve-month period between October 2024 and October 2025, involved major industry players such as Google, Meta, and Apple.[1][2]
The discussions covered a range of critical policy areas, including artificial intelligence and upcoming regulatory changes that could affect the tech sector. Chandra also reportedly addressed the potential impact of a second administration under Donald Trump. During one of these confidential sessions, the adviser allegedly offered to assist a top executive in securing a direct meeting with the prime minister.[1][2]
The disclosure of these private talks has led to significant concerns about the transparency of the government's relationship with big tech. Critics have characterized the interactions as "lobbying behind closed doors," raising questions about the influence these corporations may exert over UK policy. The reports highlight the level of access granted to tech giants by high-ranking officials within the No 10 business team.[1]
