It is a single story sparking a binary reaction — Nigel Farage and his bank account. The former Ukip leader has landed a major scalp, as NatWest boss Dame Alison Rose quit late last night after acknowledging she made a “serious error of judgment” when she discussed Mr Farage’s relationship with private bank Coutts, owned by NatWest Group, with a BBC journalist.
Highly regarded across the industry, Dame Alison made history in 2019 when she became the first woman to take the top job at one of Britain’s big four banks. But the reality is, her position had become untenable.
It is right that UK banks undertake appropriate checks on clients, not least to meet anti-money laundering requirements. But an individual’s political beliefs are not an acceptable reason to effectively debank them, particularly in a world where a current account is akin to a utility.
At the same time, questions will inevitably be asked whether the level of ministerial pressure surrounding Dame Alison’s resignation was appropriate, and if this is evidence of a Conservative Party still terrified of Mr Farage and his very real influence over voters as well as sections of the media.
New holiday essential
Passport? Check. Boarding pass? Check. Travel insurance? Hmm, let me check. The Foreign Office has updated its guidance for prospective travellers to Greece, which has been subject to raging wildfires across the mainland and on a number of islands. The Government website urges holidaymakers to “make sure you have appropriate insurance”, as hotels shut down and the death toll across the Mediterranean hits 40.
Such extreme weather is a consequence of human-induced climate change, and as we continue to emitcarbon dioxide, it will only get worse. This will impact our lives in countless ways and travel insurance, often an afterthought, will become a much more pressing (and expensive) consideration for any holiday. Just one of the consequences of a changed climate.
As years go by
As a young man, Sir Mick Jagger quipped: “I’d rather die than be 45 and still singing Satisfaction.” As the star of rock and roll turns 80 today, Stones fans who got to see him live can be grateful for the change of heart.
It’s an auspicious date, with the rapper Stormzy — somehow — only turning 30 today, despite being a fixture on our screens and in our ears for what feels nearly as long as Sir Mick. For different generations, the two stars have been ever-present companions. Here’s to many happy returns to both.
