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CT Group

Background

CT Group is an influential lobbying firm. CT Group’s clients have included the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association, mining giants BHP and Glencore, and the Legatum Institute (now the Prosperity Institute) — a think tank with right-wing ties.1See Clients section below.

CT Group was founded in Australia in 2002 as Crosby|Textor by Sir Lynton Crosby AO and Mark Textor, a successful campaign strategist and pollster respectively.2“CT Group Marks 20-Year Anniversary; Announces Board Changes.” CT Group – Trusted Global Consultancy for Strategic Success, 7 April, 2022. Archived May 20, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. Crosby has been described by both the Financial Times and The Guardian as employing “divisive” tactics in his political campaigning.3Jamie Smyth. “‘Mythical’ Lynton Crosby is master of ‘wedge politics’ in Australia.” Financial Times, March 13, 2015. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,4Nicholas Watt. “The Lynton Crosby effect: dog whistles and jewellery jokes.” The Guardian, September 29, 2013. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

CT Group expanded to the UK in March 2010, incorporating both CTF Partners Limited and Crosby Textor Fullbrook Limited,5“CT GROUP (UK) TRADING LIMITED Overview – Find and Update Company Information.” GOV.UK, Accessed 28 July, 2026. Archived August 4, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,6“CROSBY TEXTOR FULLBROOK LIMITED Overview – Find and Update Company Information.” GOV.UK, Accessed August 2, 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. and bringing on board British campaign strategist Mark Fullbrook.7“CROSBY TEXTOR FULLBROOK LIMITED People – Find and Update Company Information.” GOV.UK, Accessed August 2, 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. The group rebranded to CT Group in 2018,8Paul Wallbank. “Crosby Textor Rebrands as CT Group and Expands Australian Operations Ahead of Federal Election.” Mumbrella, 21 June, 2018. Archived May 11, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  whereas the UK entity was renamed CTF Partners in 2020 before becoming CT Group in 2023.9“CT GROUP (UK) TRADING LIMITED Overview – Find and Update Company Information.” GOV.UK, Accessed 28 July 2026. Archived August 4, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. CT Group now has offices in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia.10“CT Group – Trusted Global Consultancy for Strategic Success.” CT Group – Trusted Global Consultancy for Strategic Success, Accessed 29 July 2026. Archived July 29, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

2026 Guardian Investigation

In 2026, a Guardian investigation found evidence that CT Group had paid reporters to write news articles favourable to its clients.11Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. Further details below.

Billionaires and forged documents

In 2023, CT Group was the defendant in a legal case. CT Group had been hired in April that year by law firm Mishcon de Reya to investigate the finances of the claimant, Linda Green. As part of the investigation, CT Group had supplied a report and bank records purporting to show Green’s finances. However, Green said they were forgeries. CT Group’s executive director, Eugene Curley, maintained the documents were genuine and said a middleman lawfully obtained them. The High Court found there was a good arguable case of forgery, but dismissed Green’s application on legal grounds, while expressly stating that the evidence did not demonstrate any wrongdoing or improper behaviour by CT Group itself.12“Linda May Green v CT Group Holdings Limited” – Find Case Law – The National Archives, Accessed 30 July 2026. Archived July 30, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Pro-coal campaign on behalf of mining giant Glencore

A 2019 Guardian investigation found that CT Group orchestrated a multi-million-pound, multi-faceted campaign to spread pro-coal and anti-renewables messaging on behalf of the mining giant Glencore. This campaign reportedly involved intelligence gathering on coal critics and the use of Facebook groups that appeared to be organic, grassroots movements but that were linked to the CT Group campaign.13Christopher Knaus. “‘National disgrace’: Glencore coal campaign revelations prompt calls for reform.” The Guardian, March 7, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. Further details below.

Facebook advertising for Brexit

In 2019, a Guardian investigation found that a series of Facebook advertising campaigns for a ‘no-deal’ Brexit, which appeared to be organised by unconnected grassroots groups, were actually linked to CT Group (then CTF Partners). The investigation was based on documents seen by The Guardian that showed that as much as £1 million had been spent on advertising by these Facebook groups.14Jim Waterson. “Facebook Brexit ads secretly run by staff of Lynton Crosby firm.” The Guardian, April 3, 2019. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

CT Group branches in both the UK and Australia have reportedly worked for Big Tobacco, and CT Group founders have also held relationships with the tobacco industry.15“Crosby Textor Group.” Tobacco Tactics, Last edited July 24, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

One of CT Group’s tobacco contracts was in 2012 with Philip Morris International – the same year that the Conservative Party recruited Lynton Crosby as an advisor.  Shortly after, then Prime Minister David Cameron dropped plans to introduce plain packaging for tobacco, allegedly on Crosby’s advice.16“Lynton Crosby.” Tobacco Tactics, Last edited December 5, 2024. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Stance on Climate Change

In its UK Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025, CT Group says that:17“CT Group Holdings Limited: Annual Report and Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2025,” p.5. Companies House, 2026. Archived July 31, 2026.

“The Group acknowledges that climate change is one of the most serious environmental challenges currently threatening the global community and understands that it has a role to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

It also says:18“CT Group Holdings Limited: Annual Report and Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2025,” p.3. Companies House, 2026. Archived July 31, 2026.

“The Group recognises the importance of its environmental responsibilities. Initiatives have been designed and implemented to manage and reduce the Group’s environmental footprint which includes recycling and improving energy use and efficiency.”

It later specifies what the group has done to increase its energy efficiency, namely “installing lighting sensors; encouraging staff to turn off all office equipment at the end of each working day.”19“CT Group Holdings Limited: Annual Report and Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2025,” p.5. Companies House, 2026. Archived July 31, 2026.

DeSmog has been unable to identify any public commitment by CT Group to achieving net-zero.

Funding

The CT Group holding company reported that for the 2025 financial year it delivered almost £41 million of revenues and an operating profit of £3 million.20“CT Group Holdings Limited: Annual Report and Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2025,” p.5. Companies House, 2026. Archived July 31, 2026.

In December 2018, CT Group (then CTF Partners) gave Boris Johnson, then a Conservative MP,21“The Rt Hon Boris Johnson.” .gov.uk, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. £23,000 in loans and donations. British newspaper The Guardian noted that this gift came a month before a crucial Brexit vote.22Heather Stewart. “Boris Johnson received £23,000 from Lynton Crosby strategy firm.” The Guardian, January 11, 2019. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. he £20,000 loan was subsequently repaid.23“The Register of Members’ Financial Interests As at 11 January 2020: Johnson, Boris (Uxbridge and South Ruislip).” www.parliament.uk, January 11, 2020. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

In addition, in 2013, CT Group funded a networking dinner for Boris Johnson in the UAE and paid for flights. Johnson did not register the flights until the UK Labour Party raised questions. Johnson’s office attributed this delay to an “administrative error.”24“Lynton Crosby.” Tobacco Tactics, Last edited December 5, 2024. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,25Toby Helm. “Lynton Crosby under pressure to reveal clients of lobbying firm.” The Guardian, June 8, 2013. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Key People

NamePosition20262025202420232022
Sir Lynton Crosby AO26“Our People – Board.” CT Group, Accessed August 1, 2026. Archived August 1, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Co-Founder and Executive Chairman (from Feb 2024) and CEO (until Feb 2024)YYYYY
Mark Textor27“Our People – Board.” CT Group, Accessed August 1, 2026. Archived August 1, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Co-Founder and Non-Executive DirectorYYYYY
Baroness Helena Morrissey DBE28“Our People – Board.” CT Group, Accessed August 1, 2026. Archived August 1, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Non-Executive DirectorYY
Peter Ickeringill29“Our People – Board.” CT Group, Accessed August 1, 2026. Archived August 1, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,30“CT GROUP HOLDINGS LTD – people.” Companies House, Accessed August 1, 2026. Archived August 1, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Group Managing Director – Commercial and General CounselYYY

Sir Lynton Crosby AO

Nicknamed the “Wizard of Oz”, Lynton Crosby is renowned for masterminding right-wing election campaigns in the UK and Australia.31Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog, 14 May 2024.

Crosby helped to deliver four consecutive general election victories for the Australian Liberal Party from 1996 to 2004, worked on Boris Johnson’s two successful London mayoral campaigns in 2008 and 2012, and helped the UK Conservative Party to win power in 2010, 2015, and 2017.32Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog, 14 May 2024. He was awarded his knighthood by former Prime Minister David Cameron in 2016 after helping him win the UK general election in 2015, drawing criticism from several MPs.33Andrew Sparrow. “Lynton Crosby Knighthood Discredits Honours System, Say Labour MPs.” The Guardian, 27 Dec. 2015. Archived October 22, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

Prior to founding CT Group, he also worked for oil and gas companies Golden Fleece Petroleum and Santos.34Debra Jopson. “Lynton Crosby: David Cameron’s Lizard of Oz.” The Guardian, 20 July 2013. Archived May 7, 2024. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,35“Can Aussie election guru Lynton Crosby save the UK Tories from poll defeat?” The Advertiser, May 1, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Mark Textor

CT Group co-founder Mark Textor is a pollster by background, and CT Group describes him as “the pollster and electoral strategist behind the election victories for eight Commonwealth prime ministers.36“Mark Textor.” CT Group – Trusted Global Consultancy for Strategic Success, Accessed 30 July 2026. Archived May 24, 2026.

Baroness Helena Morrissey DBE

Morrissey, a member of CT Group’s board (correct as of July 2026), is a Conservative life peer.37“Baroness Morrissey.” UK Parliament, Accessed August 2, 2026. Archived June 29, 2024. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. She was a prominent pro-Brexit figure and publicly backed Leave in the 2016 referendum.38Chris Flood. “Helena Morrissey leaves Legal & General Investment Management.” Financial Times, October 4, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. She is also an advisory board member at Edelman, one of the world’s largest PR agencies.39“Baroness Helena Morrissey DBE.” CT Group, Accessed 30 July 2026. Archived May 20, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

David Canzini

A CT Group director,40“David Canzini.” CT Group – Trusted Global Consultancy for Strategic Success, Accessed 30 July 2026. Archived March 15, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. Canzini was former UK Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Downing Street deputy chief of staff, and later adviser to Liz Truss, another former Conservative Prime Minister.41Hugo Gye and Jane Merrick. “Truss Hires Ex-Johnson Aide as She Seeks to Reassert Authority with Strike, Immigration Reforms.” The i Paper, 18 Oct. 2022. Archived July 20, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. While working for Boris Johnson, Canzini reportedly opposed a windfall tax on oil and gas companies and pushed Johnson to take a less positive stance on onshore wind farms.42Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog, 14 May 2024. Canzini was included in Johnson’s resignation honours list.43Joey Grostern et al. “Boris Johnson’s Honours List Includes Climate Science Deniers and Fossil Fuel Lobbyists.” DeSmog, 16 June 2023.

Sam Lyon

Sam Lyon is a senior advisor at CT Group, having first begun working with the firm in 2012.44Joey Grostern et al. “Boris Johnson’s Honours List Includes Climate Science Deniers and Fossil Fuel Lobbyists.” DeSmog, 16 June 2023. He was spokesperson for Boris Johnson when Johnson was Mayor of London.45“Patchwork Foundation,” patchworkfoundation.org.uk, Accessed August 2, 2026. Archived January 30, 2021. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Mark Fullbrook

Mark Fullbrook, who held campaigning roles with the UK’s Conservative Party, co-founded the UK arm of Crosby’s lobbying company.46“Mark Fullbrook,” LinkedIn, Assessed July 30, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. He remained with CT Group until 2022.47“CT Group marks 20-year anniversary; announces board changes,” CT Group, Accessed August 2, 2026. Archived May 20, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,48“Decision: Advice Letter: Mark Fullbrook, CEO, Fullbrook Strategies,” Gov.UK, Accessed August 2, 2026. Archived Oct 7, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. Fullbrook subsequently worked as the chief of staff to former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss and still owned 10 percent of the firm while serving in Number 10.49Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog, 14 May 2024.,50Jim Waterson. “Liz Truss’s chief of staff still owns 10% of Lynton Crosby’s lobbying firm,” The Guardian, October 19, 2022. Archived October 19, 2022. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,51“Decision: Advice Letter: Mark Fullbrook, CEO, Fullbrook Strategies,” Gov.UK, Accessed August 8, 2026. Archived October 7, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. He launched his own political consultancy, Fullbrook Strategies, that same year, which provided lobbying services to a wind energy company accused of “greenwashing” new North Sea oil and gas production.52Christopher Deane et al. “Truss’s Chief of Staff Lobbied for Company Powering ‘Green’ North Sea Oil Rigs.” DeSmog, 10 Oct. 2022.

Sian Hansen

Sian Hansen was Global Chief Operating Officer at CT Group from 2019 to 202353“Sian Hansen,” LinkedIn, Assessed July 30, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. and has several right-wing affiliations: 

James Roberts

James Roberts, who was head of outreach at CT Group from 2015 to 2018, is Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch’s political secretary. He is also a former managing director (September 2018 to June 2023) of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, a UK lobby group that campaigns for low taxes, less government intervention and greater transparency with taxpayer money, and which has celebrated the awarding of new North Sea oil and gas licences.63Adam Barnett. “Kemi Badenoch’s Policy Chief Attacked Net Zero Climate Target.” DeSmog, November 29, 2024.,64“James Roberts.” LinkedIn, Assessed July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,65“Four takeaways from the King’s Speech.” Tax Payers’ Alliance, November 10, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Isaac Levido

Isaac Levido worked at CT Group (then CTF) from 2013 to 2017, most recently as a director.66“Isaac Levido.” LinkedIn, Assessed July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. Subsequently, he became head of the UK Conservative Party’s campaigns for the 2019 and 2024 general elections.67Tom Scott. “Could Isaac Levido Return the Conservatives to Power Again Against All the Odds?” Byline Times, November 27, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Yaron Finkelstein

Yaron Finkelstein worked at CT Group from 2006 to 2018 before becoming Principal Private Secretary to former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison between 2018 and 2022.68“Yaron Finklestein.” LinkedIn, Assessed July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Clients

Fossil fuel, mining and utilities clients

YearClientIncome, if available
2023Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association69Jim Pickard and Attracta Mooney. “UN climate conference hires ex-Boris Johnson aide who opposed oil and gas tax.” Financial Times, May 10, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2023BHP70“The COP28 F-List.” Clean Creatives, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2020Coal Trading & Utilities Ltd71“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: Cycle 2020,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 5, 2026. Archived August 5, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.$70,000
2019Coal Trading & Utilities Ltd72“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: Cycle 2019,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 10, 2026. Archived August 10, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.$210,000
2019Glencore73Christopher Knaus. “‘National disgrace’: Glencore coal campaign revelations prompt calls for reform.” The Guardian, March 7, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2018Glencore74Christopher Knaus. “‘National disgrace’: Glencore coal campaign revelations prompt calls for reform.” The Guardian, March 7, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2017Glencore75Christopher Knaus. “‘National disgrace’: Glencore coal campaign revelations prompt calls for reform.” The Guardian, March 7, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2014NSW Mineral Council76Stephen Galilee. “Opinion: Violent protests are undermining society.” NSW Mineral Council, June 11, 2014. Archived March 27, 2015. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  
2013Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association77Emily Dugan and Nigel Morris. “Now Cameron aide Lynton Crosby’s links to fracking industry are explored.” The Independent, July 15, 2013. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

Other energy industry clients

YearCountryRegionClientIncome, if available
2026UKEuropeEnergy Developments (UK) Limited78“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: April to June 2026.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  
2025UKEuropeEnergy Developments (UK) Limited79“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: January to March 2025.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  
2024  Air Products & Chemicals Inc80“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2024 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 5, 2026. Archived August 5, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.$100,000
2024UKEuropeEnergy Developments (UK) Limited81“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: January to March 2024.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  
2023  Air Products & Chemicals Inc82“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2023 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 5, 2026. Archived August 5, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.$160,000
2023UKEuropeEnergy Developments (UK) Limited83“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: October to December 2023.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  
2022  Air Products & Chemicals Inc84“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2022 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.$160,000
2021  Air Products & Chemicals Inc85“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2021 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2021. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.$240,000
2020  Air Products & Chemicals Inc86“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2020 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. $160,000
2019  Air Products & Chemicals Inc87“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2019 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 5, 2026. Archived August 5, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. $200,000
2018  Air Products & Chemicals Inc88“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2018 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.$120,000

Meat and dairy clients

YearClient
2025Australian Meat Processor Corporation89“More to Meat: About The Campaign.” AMPC, September, 2025. September, 2025. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  
2025Beef Australia90“CT GROUP (AUSTRALIA) PTY LTD.” Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2024Australian Meat Processor Corporation91“Annual report 2023–2024.” AMPC, 2024. Archived November 4, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2023Australian Meat Processor Corporation92“Annual report 2023–2024.” AMPC, 2024. Archived November 4, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2022Australian Meat Processor Corporation93“Annual report 2021–2022.” AMPC, 2022. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 
2021Australian Meat Processor Corporation94“Annual report 2021–2022.” AMPC, 2022. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

Other clients of interest

YearCountryRegionClientClient categoryCampaignIncome, if available
2026UKEuropeLive-in Guardians95Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Politics. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Housing  
2026UKEuropePhilip Morris96“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: April to June 2026.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco  
2025UKEuropePhilip Morris97“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: January to March 2025.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco  
2025UKEuropeTPG Angelo Gordon98“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: July to September 2025.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Financial sector  
2024  British American Tobacco99“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2024 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco $5,000
2024UKEuropeFerrexpo plc100“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: January to March 2024.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Iron/steel  
2024UKEuropeLegatum Institute101“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: January to March 2024.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Think tank  
2024UKEuropePhilip Morris102“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: April to June 2024.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco  
2023  British American Tobacco103“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2023 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco $20,000
2023UKEuropec3.ai104“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: January to March 2023.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tech  
2023UKEuropePhilip Morris105“CT Group (UK) Trading Limited: January to March 2023.” Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Accessed August 3, 2026. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco  
2023UAEMiddle EastUnited Arab Emirates106“The COP28 F-List.” Clean Creatives, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.PetrostateCOP28 
2022  British American Tobacco107“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2022 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco $20,000
2021  British American Tobacco108“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2021 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco $20,000
2020  British American Tobacco109“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2020 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco $20,000
2019  British American Tobacco110“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2019 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco $20,000
2018  British American Tobacco111“Lobbying Firm: CT Group: 2018 Cycle,” Open Secrets, Assessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.Tobacco $20,000

Actions

July 2026

A Guardian investigation found evidence of CT Group paying journalists to write pieces favourable to its clients.112Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

The Guardian began investigating CT Group after the head of CT’s real estate division, Gavin Stollar, approached a freelance journalist offering to pay for a piece about the Building Safety Regulator — a public body established in the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy — with the angle that the regulator was causing problems for the housing industry. Stollar suggested to the journalist that the piece could focus on the human impact of the UK’s housing shortage, and Stollar offered to provide case studies and assist with research.113Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Further conversations between the undercover journalist and CT Group staff followed. During these conversations, CT Group also offered to pay the journalist to write newspaper pieces favourable to its client, Live-in Guardians. CT Group said, “We don’t have to pay you, and you just go off and do how you normally do. Or, we can pay you, but we get more control over it.” The journalist was also told: “[W]e’d like you to keep our client’s messaging and overall objective in mind.”114Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. Live-in Guardians is a company that finds ‘guardians’ who pay to live in empty buildings for reduced rent to reduce the risk to the property owners of squatting or crime. Property guardianship schemes have been criticised for substandard living conditions and weak rights for tenants.115Kesia Reeve et al. “Property guardians: headline report.” Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities available at .gov.uk, June 16, 2022. Archived August 1, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

The undercover reporter asked whether he should disclose the relationship with CT Group when pitching the piece: “So they [the editor] wouldn’t necessarily know that it kind of had a CT group angle?” The CT Group lobbyist replied, “No, I don’t think so … No, I don’t think they need to. We can help you flesh out the angle and stuff to take to the editor and make sure you’ve got the case studies and stuff. But I don’t think, no, I don’t think.”116Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Though CT Group did not ultimately reach a commitment with the undercover journalist or pay him, CT Group lobbyists were explicit that it had paid journalists to write favourable pieces in the past. On one call, a lobbyist said of a journalist: “I paid her to do a certain piece, a certain national piece” and she “never discloses to editors where she gets her sources from.117”Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

In a statement, CT Group said: “We are happy to confirm, however, that we never ask journalists to behave otherwise than in accordance with their professional and ethical standards.118”Peter Apps and Robert Booth. “Lobbying Giant Filmed Offering Reporter Payment for Flattering Client Coverage in National Press.” The Guardian, 22 July 2026. Archived July 28, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

January 2024

CT Group began representing the Legatum Institute (now the Prosperity Institute). This think tank has publicly supported the UK government’s efforts to expand North Sea oil and gas exploration119Fred de Fossard. “King’s Speech analysis and takeaways – searching for politics and prosperity.” Prosperity Institute, November 14, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. and has received funding from fossil fuel interests. In 2018, it received $77,000 from the Charles Koch Foundation, which was founded by the CEO of the US-based Koch Industries fossil fuel dynasty.120Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog. May 14, 2024.

The Legatum Institute’s parent company is the Dubai-based investment firm Legatum Group, which co-owns British broadcaster GB News. GB News regularly platforms individuals who support more fossil fuel extraction and oppose the UK’s climate targets; an investigation by DeSmog found that one in three GB News presenters had spread climate science denial on air in 2022, while more than half had attacked climate action. GB News’s presenters include several Conservative Party and Reform UK politicians.121Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog. May 14, 2024.

The Legatum Institute Foundation donated £50,000 to the UK political faction New Conservatives in December 2023. The New Conservatives advocate for more socially conservative, right-wing ideas within its party, and is also linked to the fossil fuel industry and anti-climate action sentiment.122Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog. May 14, 2024. The director of the Good Law Project, Jolyon Maugham, told DeSmog, “It is curious how certain agencies, including Lynton Crosby’s, end up advising both the Tories and their friends, adding, “This raises a number of interesting political questions.123”Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog. May 14, 2024.

2023

The UAE, host country of COP28, hired CT Group to assist with its preparations for the conference. CT Group was also working for fossil fuel companies at the time, including the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association and mining company BHP.124Jim Pickard and Attracta Mooney. “UN climate conference hires ex-Boris Johnson aide who opposed oil and gas tax.” Financial Times, May 10, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,125“The COP28 F-List.” Clean Creatives, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

One of the lobbyists working with COP28 was David Canzini (see Key People above), who reportedly opposed a windfall tax on oil and gas companies when working in a previous role for former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.126Jim Pickard and Attracta Mooney. “UN climate conference hires ex-Boris Johnson aide who opposed oil and gas tax.” Financial Times, May 10, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,127“The COP28 F-List.” Clean Creatives, 2023. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

2021 – 2025

CT Group worked for the Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) from at least 2021 to 2025.128“Annual report 2021–2022.” AMPC, 2022. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,129“More to Meat: About The Campaign.” AMPC, September, 2025. September, 2025. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

In the 2021 to 2022 financial year, the AMPC paid CT Group $249,000 AUD for a project titled “What are the key drivers of the red meat processing sector’s reputation?” and a further $105,000 AUD for an “Industry Positioning Integrated Communication Plan.”130“Annual report 2021–2022.” AMPC, 2022. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. In the 2023 to 2024 financial year, CT Group was paid an additional $1,406,850 AUD for the AMPC’s “More to Meat” campaign.131“Annual report 2023–2024.” AMPC, 2024. Archived November 4, 2025. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

According to a 2025 pack outlining the “More to Meat” campaign, which appears to be authored by Jack Piggott (Head of Campaigns at CT Group Australia), the campaign was launched in 2022 “to enhance and protect the reputation of the red meat processing industry.” The pack said that the campaign was necessary because of “coordinated and funded activism” and because “Ongoing issues such as dietary guidelines, service kills, trade requirements or disruptions and sustainability can also continue to drag on the reputation of the industry.” According to the pack, the campaign’s tactics includes government engagement, regional advertising and appearances in regional media, industry engagement and a social media and digital campaign. The pack also outlined some of the campaign’s key messages, which included:132“More to Meat: About The Campaign.” AMPC, September, 2025. September, 2025. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

“The red meat processing industry has the world’s highest standards, for the environment, for worker safety, and in animal welfare.”

According to the pack, there is evidence that the campaign has helped to “reduce negative perceptions” of the industry.133“More to Meat: About The Campaign.” AMPC, September, 2025. September, 2025. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

There is also a “More to Meat” website. The FAQs section on this website says:134“FAQs.” More to Meat, Accessed August 6, 2026. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

“What is the red meat processing industry doing to reduce its impact on climate change?

Australian red meat processors follow industry best practices for minimising emissions from meat processing.

Australian red meat processors have reduced their emissions intensity by 28% since 2010, which has been largely achieved through energy efficiency improvements.

Red meat processors are continuing to be proactive and are committed to the Red Meat Industry Carbon Neutral by 2030 target.”

It is not clear whether CT Group created this website.

CT Group also conducted a survey to understand community attitudes to meat processing.135Steph Allen. “More to Meat uncovers public opinion about beef.” Queensland Country Life, May 7, 2024. Archived August 6, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

2017 – 2019

A 2019 Guardian investigation found that CT Group orchestrated a multi-million-pound, multi-faceted campaign dubbed ‘Project Caesar’ to spread pro-coal and anti-renewables messaging on behalf of the mining giant Glencore.136Sam Bright. “GB News Owner Hires Tory Kingpin’s Oil and Gas Linked Lobbying Firm.” DeSmog. May 14, 2024.

Project Caesar from ran early 2017 to mid-February 2019 with an annual budget of between £4 million and £7 million, and involved both CT Group’s Sydney and London offices. The Guardian investigation detailed multiple different tactics used by the campaign:137Christopher Knaus. “‘National disgrace’: Glencore coal campaign revelations prompt calls for reform.” The Guardian, March 7, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

  • Intelligence was compiled on leading coal critics such as Greenpeace and 350.org, covering their budgets, social media reach, and weaknesses that might be leveraged to embarrass or undermine them.138Christopher Knaus. “Revealed: Glencore bankrolled covert campaign to prop up coal.” The Guardian, March 6, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.
  • The project also appears to have included an astroturfing component. Astroturfing is the practice of making an orchestrated campaign look like an organic, grassroots movement. A source with knowledge of Project Caesar told The Guardian that the project was linked to a Facebook group and website called ‘Energy in Australia’. According to The Guardian, Energy in Australia pushed coal. It celebrated pro-coal politicians while criticising renewables, for example, blaming them for blackouts, claiming they increase energy prices, and linking renewable subsidies to “Saudi billionaires.” Reportedly, paid Facebook ads were used to spread these messages, and the Facebook group itself had 20,000 followers. A former Queensland Liberal National Party state MP, Matt McEachan, publicly authorised the sites.139Christopher Knaus. “Revealed: Glencore bankrolled covert campaign to prop up coal.” The Guardian, March 6, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.
  • According to The Guardian, Project Caesar also had a significant traditional media component, “seeking to amplify and spread pro-coal voices and messaging in mainstream media sources.140”Christopher Knaus. “Revealed: Glencore bankrolled covert campaign to prop up coal.” The Guardian, March 6, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Following the Guardian’s reporting, former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd called Project Caesar a “national disgrace.” Glencore said that “The project’s objective was to convey simple facts about coal and in particular to counter misinformation from environmental activists,” but closed down the project “to align with its recent stance on climate change.” CT Group declined to comment on the project.141Christopher Knaus. “‘National disgrace’: Glencore coal campaign revelations prompt calls for reform.” The Guardian, March 7, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

Also in 2017, Glencore was surveilling members of the CFMEU, Australia’s main trade union in the construction sector, who were picketing a Glencore mine. However, The Guardian did not uncover any evidence to suggest that this surveillance was part of Project Caesar.142Christopher Knaus. “Revealed: Glencore bankrolled covert campaign to prop up coal.” The Guardian, March 6, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

2016

An advocacy project, the Australian Power Project, was launched in late 2016 to oppose higher renewable energy targets for Australia. The Guardian noted that several posts on Australian Power Project’s website carried the byline of Thomas Tudehope. At the time, Tudehope was head of digital at CT Group (then Crosby Textor). Australian Power Project removed the byline after questions were sent to them by The Guardian Australia, and the project’s CEO, Nathan Vass, said that Tudehope’s name had been added incorrectly, that the project was his own personal endeavour, and that he was “not working for or with anyone else or any organisation.143”Helen Davidson. “‘Clean coal’ project is a personal endeavour not linked to lobby groups, founder says.” The Guardian, January 10, 2017. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

According to The Guardian, the Australian Power Project website is similar in design and tone to the Energy in Australia website linked to CT Group in 2019.144Christopher Knaus. “Revealed: Glencore bankrolled covert campaign to prop up coal.” The Guardian, March 6, 2019. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 

Circa 2014

According to an article that originally appeared in the Daily Telegraph, CT Group (then Crosby Textor) conducted a “detailed research project” on community attitudes to mining in the New South Wales state of Australia on behalf of the NSW Mineral Council. Reportedly, the polling found that 87 percent of ­those surveyed believed a strong mining industry was important to NSW.145Stephen Galilee. “Opinion: Violent protests are undermining society.” NSW Mineral Council, June 11, 2014. Archived March 27, 2015. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

2013

In 2013, the UK’s Conservative Party government announced tax breaks for shale gas.146Nicholas Watt. “David Cameron under attack over fracking firm links to Lynton Crosby.” The Guardian, July 19, 2013. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. At the time, Lynton Crosby was working as a campaign consultant for the Conservative Party,147“Tories Hire Boris Johnson’s Strategist Lynton Crosby.” BBC News, 18 Nov. 2012. Archived March 2, 2024. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. which led to the Conservative Party drawing criticism from both the Labour Party and environmental groups for Crosby’s links to the fracking industry. The shadow Cabinet Office minister, Jon Trickett, had noted that one of Crosby Textor’s (former name for CT Group) clients was the Australian Petroleum Exploration Association, and that one of the Association’s members, Dart Energy, had a UK subsidiary that had an interest in a shale gas site in the UK.148Nicholas Watt. “David Cameron under attack over fracking firm links to Lynton Crosby.” The Guardian, July 19, 2013. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.,149Emily Dugan and Nigel Morris. “Now Cameron aide Lynton Crosby’s links to fracking industry are explored.” The Independent, July 15, 2013. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.  According to British newspaper The Independent, then Prime Minister David Cameron denied that Crosby had lobbied him about fracking or other policy issues, though he “stopped short of denying they have discussed such subjects.150”Nigel Morris. “After cigarette packs and alcohol prices, David Cameron now faces questions about Lynton Crosby and fracking.” The Independent, July 19, 2013. Archived August 3, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

The UK parent company, CT Group Holdings Ltd, is controlled by Crosby Pty Limited and Roxtet Pty Ltd, the latter on behalf of a separate trust called MT Investments.151“CT GROUP HOLDINGS LTD.” Companies House, Accessed July 31, 2026. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Contact & Address

London Headquarters:152“Contact Us.” CT Group, Accessed July 31, 2026. Archived July 31, 2026. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

One Strand
 Trafalgar Square
 London, WC2N 5EJ

T: +44 (0) 20 7318 5770

E-mail: [email protected]

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