Stephen Gay hits back in AIFA resignation row

clock

AIFA director general Stephen Gay has hit back in a row over the resignation of a former member of the organisation's RDR Working Group.

Doug Johnstone, chairman of Creative Benefit Solutions, recently launched a public attack on the organisation, saying it is disproportionately influenced by pro-fee IFA firms and takes a "Stalinist approach" to crushing dissent. Claiming AIFA "largely ignored" the views of the Working Group in its Treasury Select Committee response, he bemoaned the fact meetings of the group were held under "Chatham House" rules. However, in a response to PanaceaIFA, Gay explains the events which led to Johnstone's resignation and defends his organisation. Gay says: "Despite having his views heard,...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Feel Good Friday: Quilter pledges £3m towards financial education

Feel Good Friday: Quilter pledges £3m towards financial education

Alongside £1m in grants supporting charities

Professional Adviser
clock 13 February 2026 • 1 min read
Brits unlikely to see IFAs despite Budget impact

Brits unlikely to see IFAs despite Budget impact

Just 19% were likely to seek advice, Continuum finds

Isabel Baxter
clock 12 February 2026 • 3 min read
Treasury consults on AR regime adding further FCA and FOS permissions

Treasury consults on AR regime adding further FCA and FOS permissions

Amid concerns about consumer harm and weaknesses in oversight

Isabel Baxter
clock 12 February 2026 • 3 min read