CBI settles legal action with ex chief Tony Danker sacked over misconduct claims

05 February 2024 , 12:36

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Tony Danker was sacked by the CBI last year following allegations about his behaviour (Image: PA Media)

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has settled a legal dispute with its former director-general, Tony Danker, who was sacked last year over allegations about his behaviour.

The business group and Mr Danker have agreed on an "undisclosed settlement" following his dismissal in April 2023. Mr Danker's sacking came after he faced allegations about his behaviour at work.

These claims were first reported in the Guardian, and later, more serious allegations against different CBI staff emerged, leading to the biggest crisis in the organisation's history. When Mr Danker was dismissed, the CBI stated that his conduct "fell short of that expected" of its boss.

However, it wasn't clear what Mr Danker had included in his legal action. In a statement, the CBI said: "The CBI has today settled legal action brought against the organisation by Tony Danker after his dismissal in April 2023." It added: "The CBI board has agreed an undisclosed settlement with Mr Danker."

The CBI board also clarified that Mr Danker is not associated in any way with the historical allegations reported in the media concerning matters which pre-date his tenure at the CBI and rejects any such association. The allegations against CBI staff, which included two accusations of rape, pushed the group into a deep crisis.

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After the second rape allegation was reported, many of the CBI's largest members either suspended or withdrew their membership. Meetings with ministers were also cancelled and all membership activities were put on hold by the company.

A year ago, the group claimed to represent "on behalf of 190,000 businesses", but that number has now dropped to 170,000. Despite this, the CBI has managed to keep going, even though some thought it might not survive the crisis.

During its crisis, several rival organisations popped up, hoping to become the new voice of British industry. But for now, as we head into what could be an election year, the CBI has managed to steady the ship.

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Lawrence Matheson