Despite having to contribute pounds 7,500 to the Guardian’s coffers
following its ‘cash for questions’ libel trial climb-down, I am glad to
report Ian Greer Associates was able to dip into its depleted pockets to
sponsor the Scope reception at this week’s Tory party conference.
IGA chairman Ian Greer and chief executive Andrew Smith did not make it
to the Blackpool bash, apparently due to being holed up in London facing
the hungry press. However, managing director Jeremy Sweeney and Robbie
MacDuff, managing director of the agency’s Scottish office, were on hand
and did a fine job of putting on a mutual brave face - no doubt relieved
that at least some delegates had turned up.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Labour bigwigs were too busy rubbing their hands
at the turn of events - news of which broke just before the evening
reception - to attend the do. However, some lesser lights were there to
quaff the orange juice and hear a presentation from non-executive
director and Labour peer Baroness Turner of Camden.
With IGA sponsoring the Mencap reception at next week’s Tory conference,
and with the Conservatives having somewhat less to thank the lobbying
agency for this week, it will be interesting to see which party members
make an appearance at that particular event.
