Lobbying Firm Pays Journalists for Favorable Coverage: Exposé 2026

A lobbying firm has been filmed offering a reporter payment for flattering client coverage in national press, according to a Guardian investigation. The firm, CT Group, co-founded by former electoral strategist Lynton Crosby, secretly pays journalists to write articles that benefit its clients. This practice creates a backdoor for private companies to influence public opinion under the guise of independent reporting.

How the Lobbying Scheme Worked

An undercover reporter from the Guardian approached CT Group’s head of real estate, Gavin Stollar, who offered to pay the journalist to pitch a story to a British national newspaper. The proposed article would blame the Building Safety Regulator for problems in the housebuilding industry, deflecting attention from clients’ issues. Stollar, a Liberal Democrat activist awarded an OBE in 2024, said CT Group would provide research and human case studies. The journalist would be paid by both the newspaper and CT Group, creating a hidden conflict of interest.

Cash Incentives for Editorial Control

Other CT Group staffers then proposed a deal for a leading property guardianship company, Live-in Guardians. They offered the journalist two options: either work independently without payment from CT Group, or receive £100 in cash incentives but grant the firm increased editorial control. This arrangement effectively allowed lobbyists to shape news content without readers knowing the financial ties.

Impact on Media Integrity

This scheme undermines the trust that underpins journalism. When lobbyists can buy favorable coverage, the public cannot distinguish between objective reporting and paid propaganda. The Grenfell Tower fire tragedy, which led to the creation of the Building Safety Regulator, is exploited here to push a narrative that benefits property developers.

Comparison of Ethical Journalism vs. Lobbyist-Funded Coverage

Key Takeaways

• CT Group offered money to journalists for stories favorable to property clients.
• The scheme exploited the housing shortage and Grenfell-related regulations.
• Journalists were given cash incentives in exchange for editorial control.
• This practice threatens media credibility and public trust.

FAQ

The Guardian’s investigation highlights a systemic issue in the lobbying industry. As CT Group faces scrutiny, the public should demand greater transparency in media-lobbying relationships. Stay informed and support independent journalism that does not accept hidden payments from political operatives.