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Juliet Swann

@muteswann.bsky.social
2.2K followers 3K following 536 posts

In Edinburgh | anti-corruption and political integrity | Scotland & Wales | for @transparencyuk.bsky.social | Co-chair of Open Government Partnership Scotland | she/her | Slightly obsessed with Glen Powell

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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
Hey @willhaycardiff.bsky.social - turns out you barely needed 6 days to be proved right, not 6 months! #Senedd #ReformUK
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
Douglas Alexander has apologised for late declaration of a meeting with Global Counsel - as revealed by @transparencyuk.bsky.social and the PM has accepted his apology... assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a2939...
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 05/06/2026
Corruption is a serious accusation but a word that often gets thrown around. TI rely on a precise definition: Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. Did Peter Murrell hold entrusted power? Did he abuse it? www.transparency.org.uk/news/corrupt... @salmondsalmond.bsky.social
transparency.org.uk
Corruption, embezzlement and political party funds: the case of Peter Murrell
The conviction of former SNP CEO Peter Murrell for embezzlement has prompted calls for stronger oversight of political party finances. But does it constitute corruption?
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 05/06/2026
The Murrell case demonstrates we cannot be complacent about the risk of corruption happening here in Scotland. @petergeoghegan.bsky.social @severincarrell.bsky.social @leaskyd.bsky.social @kathleennutt.bsky.social www.transparency.org.uk/news/corrupt...
transparency.org.uk
Corruption, embezzlement and political party funds: the case of Peter Murrell
The conviction of former SNP CEO Peter Murrell for embezzlement has prompted calls for stronger oversight of political party finances. But does it constitute corruption?
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 04/06/2026
I spent some time this week applying some of my learning from a one-day course at the University of Sussex Centre for Corruption to the Murrell embezzlement case. Hopefully my analysis is interesting, useful and thought-provoking. www.transparency.org.uk/news/corrupt...
transparency.org.uk
Corruption, embezzlement and political party funds: the case of Peter Murrell
The conviction of former SNP CEO Peter Murrell for embezzlement has prompted calls for stronger oversight of political party finances. But does it constitute corruption?
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Reposted by Juliet Swann
Transparency International UK @transparencyuk.bsky.social · 04/06/2026
🗣️"The lesson from this saga should be that open government in the first place serves the public better than belated dumps of data long after the event." @muteswann.bsky.social in the BBC on revelations Douglas Alexander failed to initially declare a meeting with Global Counsel. More below ⤵
bbc.co.uk
SNP demand probe into Alexander meeting with Mandelson's firm
Newly-released files confirm Douglas Alexander met with Global Counsel in summer 2024 but it was not publicly declared until earlier this year.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
What prompted the update to the data? If the humble address revelations are a prompt then that suggests the meeting should have been recorded 18 months ago. Alexander's recollection of the meeting being 'enlightening' doesn't help explain why he forgot to declare it www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
SNP demand probe into Alexander meeting with Mandelson's firm
Newly-released files confirm Douglas Alexander met with Global Counsel in summer 2024 but it was not publicly declared until earlier this year.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
Timeline: July 2024 - Douglas Alexander meets with Global Counsel as set up by Peter Mandelson. He tells Peter it was "the single most enlightening conversation I've had in the last month on trade". Feb 2025 - TI-UK downloads the DBT ministerial meetings data to update our Open Access portal.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 17/04/2026
It's official, Scottish Labour have won!* *The most pages in a manifesto competition with a whopping 98, with the Scottish Lib Dems and Scottish Conservatives coming joint second with 96.
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Calum Miller @calummillerld.bsky.social · 16/04/2026
No10’s account is incredible. I held Developed Vetting for nearly ten years and spent three years at the heart of the Cabinet Office. I have never heard of a Developed Vetting denial being overruled. Here’s why…🧵 www.theguardian.com/politics/202...
theguardian.com
Revealed: Mandelson failed vetting but Foreign Office overruled decision
Guardian investigation uncovers decision by UK security officials to deny clearance before Mandelson took up role as US ambassador
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 16/04/2026
Hot take: It doesn't really matter who is telling the truth of Sarwar and Offord, conversations can always be interpreted by the participants. What does matter is that Offord is operating the chaos monkey playbook like a pro, distracting from attention to either party's actual policy proposals.
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Scottish Labour Against Bigotry @slabcampaign.bsky.social · 13/04/2026
With enormous regret, SLAB is today advising supporters not to vote for ANY Scottish Labour candidate in this election. There are several pro-trans Labour candidates standing on 7 May, but a vote for them would now sadly be an endorsement of explicit transphobia. #NoVotesLabourInMay #TransRightsNow
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Transparency International UK @transparencyuk.bsky.social · 03/04/2026
🎥 10 years ago, the Panama Papers exposed corruption to the world. It uncovered billions of suspect funds moving through the global economy and how corrupt elites were hiding their stolen wealth. Since then, progress has been made but the flow of dirty money remains. 🔗Full link in comments ⤵️
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 02/04/2026
I've noticed a number of comment pieces recently maligning the influence of NGOs on Scottish Government, and alluding to the funding they receive from Scottish Government somehow being mispent on lobbying that only supports SG policy.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 02/04/2026
North Sea oil and gas will not change the global markets. They cannot be refined here and they are increasingly dangerous to exploit. Don't fall for the 'domestic oil and gas' misnomers or the 'we can pump it straight into the supply chain' lies. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
Swinney softens stance on North Sea drilling as oil prices soar
The first minister said energy security should be a primary concern when making decisions on oil and gas projects.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 24/03/2026
Um, but if his new phone had the same number why didn't the old messages transfer? www.theguardian.com/politics/202...
theguardian.com
Police to reassess Morgan McSweeney phone theft over address error
Force previously said it was ‘too busy’ to investigate theft despite it potentially holding sensitive information
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 12/03/2026
This is excellent reporting which deftly demonstrates the weaknesses and loopholes in Companies House, before you even get to opaque trusts in overseas territories!
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 05/03/2026
Great to see Reform UK working at the utmost of professional standards and ensuring their website links are all working.
Screenshot of Reform UK website showing 404 Not Found when looking for policy documents
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 13/02/2026
UK government: the UK will stand up for democracy and civil society... as we work together to address threats to democratic resilience, shrinking space for civil society. opengovernment.org.uk/2025/12/01/u... Also UK government: Home Sec 'disappointed' Palestine Action ban ruled unlawful.
media.tenor.com
a man is laying his head on a desk with his hands on the desk .
ALT: a man is laying his head on a desk with his hands on the desk .
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 07/02/2026
on the verge of what is the actual point anymore with all this white male fuckaboutery
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 03/02/2026
Glad Marina Hyde has the column inches to say what I'm sure many of my circle are thinking www.theguardian.com/commentisfre...
theguardian.com
It’s the Epstein files deja vu: how many more powerful men knew about his crimes, and helped him out anyway? | Marina Hyde
I’m sorry, but this is not just a political scandal. Time to refocus on the horrific mistreatment of women and girls, and the role of these ghouls, says Guardian columnist Marina Hyde
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 03/02/2026
Enabling environments for corruption can intersect with other abuses. Where elite networks operate without oversight, and misconduct faces no real consequences, multiple forms of exploitation - including sexual violence - continue with impunity. Accountability gaps don't exist in isolation.
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Transparency International UK @transparencyuk.bsky.social · 27/01/2026
🗣️ "Requiring Scotland's lobbying register to include the expense associated with lobbying would expose any links between access to decision makers and financial resources." @muteswann.bsky.social spoke to @theferret.scot, calling for tighter lobbying rules. www.theferret.scot/political-pa...
theferret.scot
Political parties took thousands from lobbying groups in Scotland. Campaigners say they are buying access to power
Political parties have accepted thousands of pounds from lobbyists in recent years. Anti-corruption campaigners claimed donations buy lobby firms “privileged access” to politicians for their wealthy c...
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
Who is funding this appeal? www.theguardian.com/society/2025...
theguardian.com
Fife nurse to appeal against ‘hugely problematic’ trans changing room ruling
Sandie Peggie won harassment claim but tribunal dismissed claims of discrimination and victimisation
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 07/12/2025
If you want to discuss what this means for Scotland, get in touch ✍️
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 06/12/2025
The @theguardian.com and @australia.theguardian.com photogs are on fire today. This ‘quintessential teen pout’ is *chef’s kiss*
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 05/12/2025
This Times article suggests Keir Starmer is considering Vaughan Gething for a spot in the House of Lords. Yep, that Vaughan Gething, who resigned as Welsh FM after a torrid period of challenges to his integrity. www.thetimes.com/uk/politics/...
thetimes.com
Starmer eyes 24 new Labour peers to push laws through Lords
Prime minister warned against ‘rewarding failure’ as plans emerge to ennoble party insiders after series of parliamentary defeats
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 27/11/2025
Another week, another full refund for a delayed train. Which I appreciate but no wonder prices keep rising.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 26/11/2025
Delighted to spend the day at the Senedd thinking about all the changes, opportunities and requirements for scrutiny as the parliament grows in size. Thanks to @jemm-s.bsky.social for co-presenting with me!
Image shows 4 women speaking on a stage in the Senedd.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 25/11/2025
Cardiff!
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 22/11/2025
The @transparencyuk.bsky.social submission to the Senedd Member Accountability Bill Committee is now on the Senedd website. business.senedd.wales/documents/s1...
Image is a screen grab from the submission referred to which states that Transparency International UK haS concerns at the level of detail currently in the draft Bill and at the detail of the reforms being left to secondary legislation. We would recommend at the least a requirement for an enhanced scrutiny process for the regulations made possible by the draft Bill and preferably for the pace of this legislation to be reconsidered.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 22/11/2025
Pleased to see others expressing concerns at the pace and Henry VIII clauses in the Senedd Cymru (Member Accountability) Bill. business.senedd.wales/mgConsultati... @unlockdemocracy.bsky.social @electoralreform.bsky.social
business.senedd.wales
Senedd Cymru (Member Accountability and Elections) Bill | Senedd
Consultation Display
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 20/11/2025
The Senedd is currently considering a Bill to introduce Recall, improve the functioning of the Standards Committee, and create an offence of deception in the run up to and during elections.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 17/11/2025
ICYMI: Who really owns property in Scotland - and sometimes not just glamourous castles but also... parking spaces in Paisley...
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The Ferret @theferret.scot · 16/11/2025
“It is far too easy for the true owners of property to hide behind secret trusts and offshore structures.” Our latest investigation shows how an oligarch praised by Putin controls UK property, including in Scotland’s biggest town www.theferret.scot/r...
theferret.scot
www.theferret.scot
https://www.theferret.scot/russian-oligarch-paisley/
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 16/11/2025
New look @theferret.scot website featuring a superb investigation that demands Scotland consider how to crack down on land ownership transparency loopholes. www.theferret.scot/russian-olig...
theferret.scot
From Moscow to Paisley: How a blacklisted Russian oligarch secretly invested in Scottish car parks
A Russian oligarch praised by Vladimir Putin has amassed a UK property portfolio under the veil of secretive offshore trusts, The Ferret can reveal. Anti-corruption campaigners say our investigation i...
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 16/11/2025
Excellent reporting from @jamiermann.bsky.social for @theferret.scot showcasing avoidance of land ownership transparency in Scotland and why the RCI should be used to tackle corruption risks www.thenational.scot/news/2562485...
thenational.scot
Leaked files expose Putin ally’s hidden stake in Paisley car parks
IN an abandoned Paisley car park, weeds and saplings have forced their way through the weathered tarmac
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 07/11/2025
We were delighted to be invited and look forward to next steps including closing the lobbying exemption loophole (more to follow on that…)
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 05/11/2025
The reality is that much of the intended improvements of land ownership transparency will not be effective without reform of trust transparency and land registration. We look forward to working on an anti-corruption strategy to address these loopholes www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
Scottish Parliament passes land reform bill
The legislation is designed to help reduce the concentration of rural land ownership among a small number of people.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
Grateful to Rhoda Grant MSP for lodging the amendment that triggered this commitment on the floor of the chamber. If you want to get involved in creating Scotland's first anti-corruption strategy lmk! Also, this is why this matters www.transparency.org.uk/news/researc...
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Zohran Kwame Mamdani @zohrankmamdani.bsky.social · 03/11/2025
A few days after the presidential election one year ago, we went to Fordham Road in the Bronx. It was a little different last week.
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Transparency International UK @transparencyuk.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
💥 BREAKING 💥 Scottish Government commits to anti-corruption strategy with improved transparency of trust structures (as proposed by Rhoda Grant in parliament). This is an important commitment that will help prevent kleptocrats and oligarchs investing their ill-gotten gains in Scottish property.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
Grateful to Rhoda Grant MSP for lodging the amendment that triggered this commitment on the floor of the chamber. If you want to get involved in creating Scotland's first anti-corruption strategy lmk! Also, this is why this matters www.transparency.org.uk/news/researc...
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
Well that was exciting - Scottish Government just confirmed in the chamber at Holyrood that they will bring forward an anti-corruption strategy as part of the next Open Government Action Plan.
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
It's pretty shocking that a vital piece of energy infrastructure could be sold to someone with so many questions to answer about the legality of their business dealings www.source-material.org/mazzagatti-v...
source-material.org
North Sea Storm – SourceMaterial
Poised to take control of ‘the backbone of the UK’s energy production’, Franceso Mazzagatti is defending allegations bribery, forgery and fraud
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 28/10/2025
Tomorrow!
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 28/10/2025
As Holyrood gets ready to begin the final stages of the Land Reform Bill, read more about the imrpvements to transparency of land ownership @transparencyuk.bsky.social considers to be an essential aspect to ensure the provisions can be effective... #LandReform #Holyrood #transparency
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 27/10/2025
“Ensuring a fully transparent dataset of land ownership in Scotland could have immediate benefits to communities seeking to use land reform provisions and will also help prevent kleptocrats and oligarchs investing their dirty money gains in Scottish property.“
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Transparency International UK @transparencyuk.bsky.social · 27/10/2025
NEW: £3.2 billion worth of Scottish property is held by opaque offshore structures. This makes it impossible to identify the true owner and raises concerns that transparency loopholes could undermine the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill currently before MSPs. www.transparency.org.uk/news/researc...
transparency.org.uk
Research reveals £3.2 billion worth of property in Scotland held by opaque offshore trusts
As MSPs debate new land reform legislation, loopholes could hide true owners of land and undermine Government and Parliament’s efforts
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Juliet Swann @muteswann.bsky.social · 27/10/2025
Secret trust structures could undermine the effective of the accountability measures in the Land Reform Bill. As Stage 3 kicks off, read more… www.transparency.org.uk/news/researc...
transparency.org.uk
Research reveals £3.2 billion worth of property in Scotland held by opaque offshore trusts
As MSPs debate new land reform legislation, loopholes could hide true owners of land and undermine Government and Parliament’s efforts
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