Think-tank with links to Brown breached charity law by getting involved in party politics

The Charity Commission said Gordon Brown ignored formal requests for information as part of its investigation into the Smith Institute A think-tank linked to the Prime Minister breached charity rules by promoting Gordon Brown's interests, an inquiry has concluded. The Charity Commission said Mr Brown ignored formal requests for information as part of its investigation into the Smith Institute. The Commission voiced 'concern' that Mr Brown repeatedly held events at 11 Downing Street for the Institute when he was Chancellor. The work of the think-tank has been under scrutiny for months following complaints that it acted as a front for Mr Brown's leadership ambitions. The organisation, named after former Labour leader John Smith, has long been seen at Westminster as a vehicle for promoting Mr Brown's policies. The Tories also... [read full story]