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

AI opportunity or dotcom déjà vu?

AI opportunity or dotcom déjà vu?

Experts tell Professional Adviser where they see long-term value in AI

Sahar Nazir
clock 19 January 2026 • 3 min read
Fintel buys Pearson Ham pricing data business in £11m deal

Fintel buys Pearson Ham pricing data business in £11m deal

Acquisition expected to generate revenue of £2.6m

Sahar Nazir
clock 19 January 2026 • 2 min read
Editor's view: Headlines from the Scottish Budget

Editor's view: Headlines from the Scottish Budget

The editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 16 January

Jen Frost
clock 16 January 2026 • 2 min read