Bank of England Investigating Employee's Involvement in Greenpeace Rally
The Bank of England is conducting a probe into an employee who dressed up as a zombie during office hours for an anti-government protest. Alistair Strathern, who also happens to be a Labour parliamentary candidate, participated in a Greenpeace rally at the Home Office last month. This has raised questions about his conduct, especially since he works on climate change matters at the Bank.
Bank Reviews Staff Conduct Policies
The Bank of England is reviewing its staff conduct policies in the wake of Alistair Strathern's involvement in the protest. According to Bank chief Andrew Bailey, the issue is being taken "extremely seriously", and he has confirmed that a probe is ongoing. The bank's code of conduct prohibits staff from engaging in activities or expressing views in public that conflict with the objectives and role of the bank.
Tory MP Questions Bank Chief
Tory MP Danny Kruger expressed his concern during a Treasury Committee hearing, asking Bank chief Andrew Bailey if it is acceptable for a Bank of England employee to participate in such a protest. In response, Bailey reiterated that the bank's policies are being reviewed and stressed the importance of abiding by them at all times.
Labour Candidate's By-election
Alistair Strathern, the employee in question, is also Labour's parliamentary candidate for Mid Bedfordshire. He will be standing in a by-election scheduled to take place on October 19. His opponents include Tory candidate Festus Akinbusoye and Lib Dem candidate Emma Holland-Lindsay.
