Introduction
A tangled web of think tanks, big bucks, and
free-market ideology: How the Atlas Network is shaping UK politics, often from
the shadows.
The UK political landscape is a complex beast, with
players and agendas vying for influence. But beyond the familiar faces and party
platforms, a lesser-known network operates - the Atlas Network. With its tendrils reaching into think tanks,
funding streams, and even the ears of certain politicians, the Atlas Network's
influence deserves a closer look.
Who are they?
Founded in 1981 by Antony Fisher, a British oil
tycoon with close ties to Margaret Thatcher, the Atlas Network is a global
network of libertarian think tanks. They
promote free-market policies, deregulation, limited government intervention, reduced welfare spending, tax cuts for the rich, privatization, and minimal
environmental regulations. While they present themselves as champions of
individual liberty, their policies often benefit the wealthy and powerful at
the expense of ordinary citizens and the environment.
Who funds them?
The Atlas Network is a well-oiled machine, fueled
by generous donations from wealthy individuals, corporations, and even foreign
governments. Some notable names include the
Koch brothers, ExxonMobil, the tobacco
industry and the Templeton Foundation.
This raises concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest.
Who do they support?
- While the Atlas Network claims not to
endorse specific candidates or parties, their research and lobbying
efforts often align with the Conservative Party. Politicians like Rishi Sunak, Liz Truss, and
Priti Patel have received support from Atlas-linked think tanks like the Institute
of Economic Affairs (IEA) and the TaxPayers' Alliance. Conservative MPs like Daniel Hannan and Mark
Littlewood have close ties to the Atlas Network, regularly attending
their events and echoing their talking points. Former Brexit
Secretary Dominic Raab has even been dubbed the "IEA's man
in government."
What can be done?
Shining a light on the Atlas Network's activities
is crucial. Here are some ways to
increase transparency and accountability:
- Media investigations: Journalists
must follow the money and expose the network's funding sources and
connections to politicians.
- Campaign finance reform: Stricter
regulations on political donations can help prevent undue influence from
powerful groups like the Atlas Network.
- Public awareness: Educating the
public about the Atlas Network's agenda and its potential impact on policy
decisions can spark informed debate and push for greater transparency.
- Calling out poor analysis: For example, the IEA issued a report that
concluded that lockdowns had very little impact. They got to this conclusion by
considering evidence from what, in their view the most valid type of study
(so-called difference in difference studies). But by picking only a very
particular type of study they ignore the vast majority of the evidence. If
you ignore all the data that you don’t like, you tend to get the answer
you were looking for in the first place.
Conclusion:
The Atlas Network may operate in the shadows, but
its influence on UK politics is undeniable. By demanding transparency,
scrutinizing funding, and raising public awareness, we can ensure that the true
players in the political arena are no longer shrouded in secrecy. Only then can
we have a truly informed and democratic conversation about the future of our
nation.
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