CITY WHISPERS: Drax asks journalists for help during PR crisis
Power plant operator Drax has been struggling with its image for some time.
Its claims to be a green energy giant have come under increasing scrutiny from activists, who argue that the practice of burning wood pellets to produce electricity is anything but environmentally friendly.
The PR crisis seems to have escalated to such an extent that the group is now asking hackers for help.
Power play: Power plant operator Drax has been struggling with its image for some time
According to an email from Jonathan Oates, Drax's director of external affairs, 'a number of key journalists' are being asked to complete a survey to gauge the company's reputation on Fleet Street.
The questionnaire asks what they think of Drax's management and especially whether they think it meets the sustainability objectives.
In an attempt to sweeten the deal, Drax is also offering a £100 donation for every survey completed, with the charity determined by the relevant hack.
Friends of Earth perhaps?
Surprise guest at BAE soiree
A surprising participant at BAE's festive drinks last week was Matt Hancock.
No one knew exactly why the reality TV star and former Health Secretary was at the defense company fair, which was held in the splendor of Whitehall's Banqueting House.
He also appeared underdressed in dirty jeans, sneakers and a fleece.
Perhaps Hancock, recently threatened by military types in the TV series Celebrity SAS, was expecting a repeat performance.
Head of PR agency Brunswick 'hypocritical'
There is gossip in Westminster about Sir Alan Parker, the head of PR organization Brunswick, Whispers hears.
As The Mail on Sunday revealed, Brunswick has been connecting the Labor Party with business leaders ahead of the next election.
But Whispers understands that senior government officials have branded Parker a “hypocrite” who “talks with both sides of his mouth” as he continues to link his clients to the Tory government.
A spokesperson for Brunswick said it has never acted on behalf of a political party.
But any good PR guy knows that you need to have contacts on both sides of the fence.
And Parker is also a known friend of the Foreign Secretary – Lord Cameron stayed at his house after leaving Downing Street.
Some might still say there is a fine line to tread.
Revolut blows a trumpet
Michael Bodansky, Revolut's head of PR, took to LinkedIn last week to invite employees who go on to found start-ups.
Apparently, Revolut has produced more founders than any other private tech company in Europe.
But Whispers questions how much there is to celebrate when staff strike out on their own, especially as the fintech company was accused by former employees of setting unattainable targets and forcing them into unpaid work.
Revolut says the working environment has been overhauled – but would employees still prefer to take their ideas elsewhere?
Contributions: Francesca Washtell, John-Paul Ford Rojas