Rishi Sunak, the former Prime Minister, has embarked on a new chapter in his career, accepting paid advisory roles at Microsoft and Anthropic. This move has sparked curiosity and raised questions about the potential impact on his political legacy. Sunak's decision to join these tech giants as an adviser comes with certain restrictions imposed by the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba). The committee has advised him not to lobby ministers on behalf of the companies, a stipulation that reflects the delicate balance between private sector engagement and public office. Sunak's commitment to transparency is evident as he plans to donate his earnings to The Richmond Project, a charity he founded to address numeracy issues in the UK. His social media posts emphasize his dedication to ensuring that technological advancements benefit all of society. Sunak's new roles are seen as a strategic move to leverage his expertise in the tech industry while contributing to the development of AI safety and regulation. However, the potential for a conflict of interest arises, as Acoba has raised concerns about the influence Sunak's positions at Microsoft and Anthropic might have on UK government policy. The watchdog's letters highlight the need for Sunak to adhere to the rules governing ex-ministers' employment, ensuring that his post-government roles do not compromise his integrity or the integrity of the government's decision-making processes.
