Trustees of the City & Guilds of London Institute have been accused of deliberately stalling an independent inquiry into the controversial £166 million sale of the institution’s historic headquarters. The allegations have sparked a fresh row over governance and transparency at the 140-year-old educational charity.
Background of the Sale
The sale, which took place in 2022, involved the disposal of the Grade II-listed building at 31 Jewry Street in the City of London. Proceeds were intended to fund the charity’s modernisation and expansion plans. However, critics have questioned whether the sale was conducted at the best possible price and whether proper procedures were followed.
Allegations of Delays
According to documents seen by the Guardian, the inquiry, which was commissioned in 2023, has been repeatedly delayed. Whistleblowers claim that trustees have failed to provide necessary information and have raised procedural objections to slow down the process. One source described the situation as a “deliberate obstruction” aimed at preventing a full and transparent investigation.
The inquiry was set up after concerns were raised by a group of former governors and alumni, who argued that the sale undervalued the property and that conflicts of interest were not properly managed. The charity has denied any wrongdoing and insists that the sale was conducted in line with its charitable objectives.
Trustees’ Response
A spokesperson for City & Guilds said: “We have fully cooperated with the inquiry and deny any suggestion of stalling. The process has been thorough and careful, as befits a matter of this complexity. We remain committed to transparency and accountability.” However, critics argue that the delays are a tactic to run down the clock and avoid scrutiny.
Wider Implications
The row comes at a time when the Charity Commission is already examining governance issues at several large educational charities. The commission has said it is monitoring the situation but has not yet launched a statutory inquiry. The case has also raised broader questions about the oversight of charitable asset sales and the role of trustees in such transactions.
Former governor Sir Michael Bichard, who has been vocal on the issue, said: “This is a test of whether the charity sector can police itself. If trustees are allowed to block inquiries, then public trust in the entire system is undermined.”
Next Steps
The inquiry is expected to report later this year, though further delays cannot be ruled out. Meanwhile, the Charity Commission has urged all parties to resolve the matter swiftly. The outcome could have significant implications for future charitable asset disposals and governance reforms.
