In Memory of Graham Rodmell

Graham Rodmell, who sadly passed away on the 26th of April, was the ‘Coordinator’ of Transparency International UK from 1998 to 2010. This rather downbeat title belies Graham’s commitment to the anti-corruption cause. Graham’s main career had included long service as a senior lawyer with the Commonwealth Development Corporation which gave him a strong  interest in the world of ‘development’ and an equally strong awareness of the role of corruption in undermining development Initiatives.

Graham’s key contribution to Transparency International UK came in the several attempts to persuade the Labour and subsequently the Coalition government to pass anti-corruption legislation which would bring the UK law into line with the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention of 1997. This involved detailed scrutiny and proposed amendments to the Anti Terrorism, Crime and Security Bill of 2001, the preparation and promotion of a private members Bill (Bribery of Public Officials, also in 2001) and responses to the Bribery Act which was ultimately effective in 2012. Transparency International UK’s response would have been much weaker without Graham’s skilful involvement working closely with Jeremy Carver and others involved at the time.

He was also very active in preparation of various responses to government policy on aid and the fight against corruption, and in presentations to the House of Commons Select Committee on  International Aid. Graham was very committed to increasing the direct involvement of companies as supporters of Transparenct International and was active in the formation of the Corporate Supporters Forum which grew to become the Business Integrity Forum of today.

He shared with me an enthusiasm for ensuring that anti corruption became part of the EU agenda both in relation to development aid and more widely. I remember successfully convening the first meeting of the nascent EU chapters of Transparency International in Brussels over a weekend in 2000, when Graham’s characteristic mixture of sincerity, expertise and bonhomie came to the fore. His many professional and personal friends will hold his memory in a very warm light.