Corrupted Kingdom
Britain’s Disappearing Integrity – And How We Can Get It Back
Professor Robert Barrington presents a thought-provoking talk based on his recently published book, Corrupted Kingdom, an incisive examination of how corruption affects modern Britain and what can be done to restore trust in public life.
Cash from anonymous donors. Cronyism in government contracts. Politicians who sell their influence to the highest bidder. Corruption is often seen as a problem elsewhere, yet Robert Barrington argues that it has become deeply embedded in many areas of British society.
Date: Friday 16 October
Time: Doors open 7pm; talk begins at 7.30pm
Where: The Salisbury Museum, The King’s House, 65 The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN
Tickets: £20
Britain has long regarded itself as a defender of fairness, integrity and the rule of law. But from scandals in Westminster and local government to concerns about housing, policing and public services, questions about accountability and abuse of power are increasingly difficult to ignore. In this timely talk, Barrington explores the extent of the problem, its historical roots, and the choices facing political leaders and citizens alike.
One of the world’s leading experts on corruption, Barrington draws on decades of research and campaigning experience to examine how corruption manifests across British institutions, from politics and policing to business and the monarchy. He traces its origins, from the legacy of Empire to the influence of global wealth, and considers how trust in democracy and public institutions might be rebuilt.
Both authoritative and accessible, Corrupted Kingdom offers a compelling analysis of one of the defining challenges facing Britain today and a practical vision for how integrity can be restored.
“Wonderful, highly readable and impassioned.”
Daron Acemoglu, author of Why Nations Fail
“Required reading for anyone who cares about how democracy works – both as a warning and a call to action.”
Bill Browder
Robert Barrington is Professor of Anti-Corruption Practice at the University of Sussex and one of the UK’s foremost authorities on corruption. Formerly head of Transparency International UK, he campaigned for the introduction of the Bribery Act, the UK’s Anti-Corruption Strategy and Unexplained Wealth Orders. He has advised the Ministry of Justice, the Cabinet Office and the UK’s Corporate Governance Committee, among others.