Does the UK do enough to guard against corruption in public life?
17 September 2026, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Location: Online / Institute for Government, 2 Carlton Gardens, London SW1Y 5AA
Think tank: Institute for Government
This event hosted by UK think tank the Institute for Government explores the scale and nature of corruption risks in the UK today.
High-profile incidents of misconduct, political donations, and freebies have all raised concerns about standards and integrity in UK public life – so what more can be done to tackle corruption in national and local government?
In his new book Corrupted Kingdom, Robert Barrington argues that corruption in Britain is not just a matter of isolated scandals but reflects deeper systemic vulnerabilities that risk undermining trust in democratic institutions. This Institute for Government event will bring together a panel of experts – including Robert – to explore the scale and nature of corruption risks in the UK today, examine where current safeguards are working or falling short, and discuss what reforms may be needed to strengthen transparency and accountability.
Robert’s book argues political leaders are facing a clear choice: tackle corruption or continue on the road to decline. This event will explore what that choice looks like in practice – and whether the UK is ready to act.
Speakers
Robert Barrington – author of Corrupted Kingdom: Britain’s Disappearing Integrity – And How We Can Get It Back
John Penrose – former government Anti-Corruption Champion
The event will be chaired by Dr Rebecca McKee, Associate Director at the Institute for Government.
