Independent broadcast archive

Ideoba

An independent archive of broadcast material relating to Ideoba and Welsh public administration.

Archive item 01

First Minister challenged after adviser contradicts his account of Ideoba-linked departure

The Leader of the Opposition confronts the First Minister with David Goldstone’s statement that the controversy surrounding his advice on Ideoba left him no alternative but to cease working for the Welsh Government. Goldstone’s explanation directly conflicts with the First Minister’s account that his contract ended naturally. The Leader of the Opposition also questions whether Goldstone operated beyond his property remit and accessed government papers that the First Minister confirms he was not entitled to see.

Programme
Welsh Assembly proceedings
Broadcast date
Pending verification

Archive item 02

BBC reports adviser’s Ideoba-linked departure and calls for Ministerial Code inquiry

The BBC reports that David Goldstone personally decided not to renew his contract because of complaints about his involvement with Ideoba, saying the controversy left him no alternative but to cease working for the Welsh Government. The report covers calls to investigate whether Economy Minister Edwina Hart breached the Ministerial Code by giving privileged commercial information about Ideoba to Goldstone, with the public-finance watchdog also considering an investigation.

Programme
BBC Wales television news
Broadcast date
Pending verification

Archive item 03

First Minister pressed over property adviser’s role in opposing further support for Ideoba

The Leader of the Opposition presses the First Minister to explain why David Goldstone, whose remit covered property matters only, commented on and advised the government about Ideoba’s application on five separate occasions. The Leader of the Opposition quotes an email in which Goldstone says he spoke at length with the Economy Minister and advised that the project should not receive further Welsh Government support, then questions whether Goldstone exceeded his terms of reference.

Programme
BBC Parliament: First Minister’s Questions
Broadcast date
19 May 2015