Key facts
- UK government policy on datacentres and AI was developed without meetings with environmental groups.
- 38 ministers, senior civil servants and special advisers were hired to positions in AI companies between July 2024 and September 2026.
- Ministers and directors general met 137 businesses to discuss Britain’s datacentre policy.
- Senior officials met only two community groups and no environmental organisations.
- £500 million redevelopment approved for Truman Brewery site in east London to include a datacentre.
An investigation by Spotlight on Corruption revealed that the UK government's policy development for AI datacentres and 'AI growth zones' largely excluded environmental and community groups. Over a 12-month period, ministers and senior officials met with 137 businesses but only two community groups, and no environmental organisations. This occurred while 38 former ministers, civil servants, and special advisers moved into positions within AI companies, raising concerns about a 'revolving door' influencing policy.