Ladies and Gentlemen: The British government is sponsoring an all-expenses paid junket to London next week, to lobby congressional staffers on global warming. According to an itinerary drafted by a British Embassy official in Washington, staffers from your respective offices are planning to attend. The idea of a foreign government wining and dining Hill staffers overseas in an attempt to subvert U.S. policy is extremely troubling to my organization. Both the House and Senate have enacted "gift bans" that govern the conduct of registered lobbyists and staffers. While the gift ban does not apply to a foreign government, this junket certainly flies in the face of its intent. This is not a cultural exchange or for some similar purpose. The stated purpose of this trip is to lobby staffers on U.S. policy. I find this unacceptable and request that you address this situation immediately. I wish to inform you that I plan to share my concerns with various media, including many in your local districts. Respectfully, Lewis Fein, Interim Executive Director www.publicinterstwatch.org ### PIW is a 501(c)4 tax-exempt organization, which means contributions to PIW are not tax-deductible. Initial funding for PIW has been provided by business organizations. 1425 P Street, NW Suite 706 Washington, DC 20005 How to Contribute