The Matrix Project is an effort to document personal factors that undermine powerful journalists’ claims of objectivity and impartiality. Are factors such as an elite education, establishment connections, personal wealth and interests in rival fields compatible with journalistic integrity? 

This page looks at former Spectator journalist James Forsyth. For more information on the database click here.

Education

Learn about the significance of a private/Oxbridge education here

James Forsyth was educated at Winchester College, a public school (source). He graduated from Jesus College, Oxford University. (source)

Revolving Door

Learn about the significance of the Revolving Door here.

James Forsyth is currently Political Secretary to the Prime Minister of the UK, Rishi Sunak (source)

“Establishment” Connections

Learn about the significance of Establishment Connections here

Primary

James Forsyth is married to Allegra Stratton, the former Press Secretary to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was forced to resign from her role after being filmed laughing and joking about apparent lockdown violations by government officials. She is also a former journalist and has, indeed, returned to journalism following her spell in politics (source).

Secondary

James Forsyth is a close personal friend of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. They attended Winchester College together, Sunak was best man at Forsyth’s wedding to Stratton, and they are godparents to each others’ children (source)

Salary/Indications of Wealth

Learn about the significance of journalists with an unusual level of wealth here.

Salary details for James Forsyth have not yet been released by the government for year ending 2023. It is likely he is paid at a Band 4 salary meaning he is likely to earn no less than £110,000, with a maximum salary of £144, 999. (source)

As a point of reference, the Office for National Statistics list the average UK salary for 2021 as £26,193.

Summary

James Forsyth is a privately educated, Oxford graduate who is now Political Secretary and close personal friend to the current UK Prime Minister. He is married to a former journalist who served as Press Secretary for the previous Prime Minister. He earns a minimum of £110k a year.

Impartial? Independent? Holding the powerful to account?

Learn more about the Matrix Project here.

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