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MPs call for investigation into Financial Conduct Authority after death of whistleblower Simon Andriesz
Overview
UK MPs are demanding an independent investigation into the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) treatment of whistleblowers following the death of Simon Andriesz, a former BGC Partners trader. Andriesz took his own life in Thailand last month after submitting evidence to regulators concerning business links between US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Jeffrey Epstein, alongside allegations of misconduct and subsequent retaliation at BGC Partners.
Key points
- Simon Andriesz, a former senior employee at BGC Partners, died in Thailand on 23 September from suicide.
- Andriesz had provided evidence to the FCA, FBI, and other watchdogs regarding business connections between US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Jeffrey Epstein.
- A group of UK MPs, led by Labour backbench MP John McDonnell, described his death as a preventable tragedy and called for an independent evaluation of the FCA's handling of whistleblowers.
- Andriesz had accused the FCA of inaction and claimed its handling of his reports exposed him to extreme retaliation, leaving him feeling thoroughly let down.
- BGC Partners denied retaliating against Andriesz, stating it maintains strong policies protecting whistleblowers.
- The FCA appointed new non-executive board director Lea Paterson to review its interactions with Andriesz and learn lessons for the future.
