UK envoy's dual role sparks transparency concerns over £2m charity funds
Jonathan Powell, a former government adviser, has faced scrutiny over his dual role as the UK's Special Envoy for the British Indian Ocean Territory and head of a private charity. Questions have arisen about transparency and funding after his organisation, Inter-Mediate, reported over £2 million in income last year.
The appointment in September 2024 came just before the UK announced plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Powell's charity, Inter-Mediate, operates through IM01 Limited, a private company set up in 2011. He led the organisation as chief executive until December 2024. The charity's latest financial reports show more than £2 million from 'charitable activities', alongside government grants and private donations.
Before his formal appointment as envoy, Powell had already been in contact with officials. After his role was confirmed, his organisation received over £1 million in taxpayer funding. His meetings with senior Chinese officials, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi, were conducted in his capacity as Inter-Mediate's head.
A parliamentary committee has since raised concerns about oversight of the National Security Adviser role. They highlighted a 'lack of clarity' over accountability, noting that no specific UK authority monitors Inter-Mediate's finances. Critics argue that the overlap between Powell's public duties and private charity leadership raises questions about transparency. Supporters, however, point to his long experience in international negotiations and conflict resolution.
Within weeks of Powell's appointment, the UK government announced its intention to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. The timing has drawn further attention to his dual roles and the charity's funding sources. The case highlights ongoing questions about how public and private roles intersect in diplomatic appointments. No official records or oversight bodies have been identified to track Inter-Mediate's funding before recent media reports. The government's decision on the Chagos Islands now moves forward amid calls for clearer accountability.
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