Britain’s largest business organization, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), has postponed all of its upcoming public events in response to reports of sexual harassment, drug use, and rape among its staff. This includes its annual dinner, which Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey was slated to speak at alongside a major political figure. Tickets to the event cost up to 4,900 pounds (6,110 US Dollars).
To assess the allegations and the situation, the CBI appointed a law firm to conduct an independent investigation. This investigation has since broadened following reports from the Guardian newspaper on Monday, detailing allegations of sexual misconduct by over a dozen people. One such allegation involved a rape that allegedly took place on a boat during a staff party in London.
As a result of this news, Labour politician Lisa Nandy pulled out of a “political engagement” event due to take place with the CBI. A spokesperson for the CBI said in light of the “very serious allegations,” their external program of events has been temporarily paused. They expect the review to be finalized after the Easter break.
The CBI is an independent membership organisation for British business in politics, economics, and the public sphere. Founded in 1965, the CBI has been responsible for advocating for British businesses and growing the UK economy.
Tony Danker held the position of director general at the CBI for four years, until resigning in response to allegations of his own sexual misconduct. Danker attained several prestigious positions before joining the CBI, including serving as Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s advisor in charge of policy strategy, and working on the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer’s team in the House of Commons.
