**Penny Mordaunt Joins British American Tobacco’s Transformation Advisory Board**
In a significant development, former Conservative cabinet minister Penny Mordaunt has taken on a part-time paid position with British American Tobacco (BAT), where she will serve as a member of its transformation advisory board. This announcement has drawn attention given Mordaunt’s prominent political background and the controversial nature of the tobacco industry.
The news of Mordaunt’s new role was disclosed on the official website of the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba), which oversees the post-government employment of politicians to ensure that their previous roles do not influence future employment opportunities unfairly. According to BAT, Mordaunt’s expertise will be utilized to offer insights, particularly in the area of tobacco harm reduction.
In her correspondence with Acoba, Mordaunt articulated that her responsibilities would also include evaluating the company’s strategic moves aimed at decreasing its combustible product line, which is primarily cigarettes. These duties come at a pivotal time as BAT shifts its focus toward creating a “smokeless world” and diversifying its product offerings to include vapes and other tobacco alternatives.
**The Shift Within British American Tobacco**
British American Tobacco has long been associated with iconic cigarette brands such as Lucky Strike and Rothmans. However, in recent years, the company has recognized the urgent need to adapt to changing consumer demands and regulatory environments. The company has set an ambitious goal of transforming into a predominantly smokeless business by the year 2035. This shift is reflective of larger health and societal trends that seek to reduce smoking rates and facilitate a transition towards safer alternatives.
In light of her new position, many observers are curious about the implications of Mordaunt’s role, especially regarding her previous commitments and political engagements. All former ministers are required to consult Acoba regarding any job they wish to undertake within two years of leaving government. This regulation aims to address potential conflicts of interest, ensuring that a politician’s former decisions do not unduly influence their new roles.
Acoba’s letter to Mordaunt stated that the risk of her role being perceived as a reward for her governmental decisions was “limited.” This assessment suggests that Mordaunt’s previous ties to tobacco regulation are not seen as significantly jeopardizing the integrity of her new advisory position.
**Governmental Context and Historical Precedents**
The context of Mordaunt’s new appointment is further complicated by recent governmental attempts to legislate stricter tobacco control measures. Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had introduced the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aimed to prohibit sales of tobacco to individuals born after January 1, 2009. Despite the ambition of this legislation, it faced skepticism from many Conservative MPs, including Mordaunt, who did not participate in the vote when it was brought to the floor of Parliament.
Mordaunt’s entrance into the tobacco sector is not unprecedented, as other politicians have also taken roles within BAT. Former Chancellor Ken Clarke, for instance, became deputy chairman of BAT after his unsuccessful bid for Tory leadership in 1997, showcasing a historical pattern of political figures transitioning into roles within the tobacco industry.
**Looking Ahead: Mordaunt’s Future Endeavors**
Beyond her advisory role with BAT, Mordaunt is also involved in several other projects. Notably, she is working on a series of short films regarding the ongoing situation in Ukraine, titled “Do Not Look Away,” aimed at raising awareness and engaging with the humanitarian crisis. Additionally, she has secured a position with Sub Sea Craft Limited, a Portsmouth-based engineering firm specializing in maritime technology.
Mordaunt’s multifaceted career trajectory showcases her ambition and adaptability as she navigates the shifting political landscape. Despite facing challenges, including a significant electoral loss in her Portsmouth North seat in 2024, her involvement with both British American Tobacco and new media ventures demonstrates her commitment to making a mark beyond her political life.
As she embarks on this new chapter, scrutiny will undoubtedly continue regarding her influence and the ethical considerations of her roles within an industry that has historically faced criticism for its health impacts. The balance between her political past and corporate future will be a focal point for both supporters and detractors alike.