The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has issued a formal apology to former NatWest boss Alison Rose, admitting that it was wrong to suggest she had breached data protection laws in relation to Nigel Farage’s banking relationship. The apology comes after findings released last month implied that Rose had broken rules by confirming Farage’s accounts with private bank Coutts and misleading a journalist about their closure.
After receiving a complaint from Rose, the ICO conducted a second review of the case and admitted that it had mishandled the situation. In its apology, the ICO stated that its investigation did not find any evidence of Rose violating data protection law and regretted giving the impression that she had.
The ICO clarified that the investigation was solely focused on NatWest Group and not on Rose herself. It also acknowledged that it had failed to give Rose an opportunity to respond to its conclusions, which was deemed appropriate in the specific circumstances.
The independent review commissioned by NatWest, which determined that Coutts had the right to close Farage’s accounts due to financial reasons rather than his views, will likely factor into a decision regarding Rose’s £10 million pay package. NatWest’s board of directors is currently deliberating on this matter.
In light of the ICO’s apology and the independent review’s findings, it remains to be seen whether any adjustments will be made to Rose’s pay package. Neither Rose’s spokesperson nor Farage’s spokesperson provided immediate comments on the situation.
FAQ:
1. What was the initial accusation against Alison Rose?
The initial accusation suggested that Alison Rose had breached data protection laws by discussing Nigel Farage’s banking relationship with a journalist.
2. What did the second review by the ICO reveal?
The second review concluded that there was no evidence of Alison Rose breaching data protection laws and admitted mishandling the case.
3. What did the independent review commissioned by NatWest determine?
The independent review determined that Coutts had the contractual right to close Nigel Farage’s accounts for financial reasons, rather than his views.
4. Will the ICO’s apology and the independent review’s findings impact Alison Rose’s pay package?
The decision regarding Alison Rose’s pay package, which amounts to £10 million, including salary, bonuses, and unvested shares, will likely take into account both the ICO’s apology and the independent review’s findings.