AOAV report finds UK media fails to disclose defence sector links in nearly 60% of cases

A report by the Armed Occupation Violence and Arms Trade (AOAV) has identified a systemic failure within UK media outlets to disclose the commercial ties of retired senior military figures when they are presented as independent defence experts. The analysis, covering media reports between 2015 and May 2026, found that nearly 60% of former key military personnel with links to the defence industry were cited primarily by their rank and previous service, without audiences being informed of their current post-service roles, consultancies, or financial interests.

The study examined 33 key military figures, including Major Generals, Air Marshals, and Admirals, who held commercial or private directorships, shareholdings, or vested interests in the defence, security, and technology sectors. Of these, 19 were quoted in major media outlets without any reference to these private appointments. The report highlights that while post-service commercial work is lawful and commonplace, the omission of such details obscures potential conflicts of interest and undermines public trust in media commentary on war, military spending, and national security.

Specific examples include General Sir Nicholas Patrick Carter, who serves as a Strategic Advisor at Exigent Capital, and Field Marshal Baron Houghton, a Senior Defence Adviser at Thales UK. Both were quoted advocating for increased defence spending or commenting on conflicts without disclosure of their vested interests in companies such as Exigent Capital, Thales UK, and Cobham. The report also profiles figures such as Air Chief Marshal Lord Peach, who holds directorships in Stuart Peach Consultancy Limited and Super-Sharp Space Systems Limited, yet was frequently identified in media solely by his former military rank.

The Telegraph was highlighted as a notable outlier for repeatedly publishing commentary from former senior military figures advocating for increased defence spending without adequate disclosure of their commercial interests. Other outlets cited for similar failures include the Daily Mail, Express, The Independent, iPaper, The Sun, LBC, Sky News, Times Radio, and Channel 4 News. The AOAV argues that this pattern limits the range of views the public hears and can shape how threats are understood and which policy choices seem reasonable.

Academic experts have weighed in on the findings, with Dr Paul Lashmar and Professor Justin Schlosberg from City, University of London, stating that current employment must be stated to avoid misleading the public about potential conflicts of interest. The report urges media organisations to improve editorial due diligence and transparency, asserting that audiences have a right to full and relevant information when evaluating expert commentary, particularly where it involves lives, public expenditure, and international security.