Coutts face threat to licences over Farage bank account row

Ministers are considering putting extra conditions on banking licences after a row over the closure of Brexiteer Nigel Farage’s account at Coutts.

It follows reports that lenders could lose their permits if they cut ties with customers because they disagree with their political views.Mr Farage has accused Coutts of lying about its decision, saying he was “cancelled” by the bank.Coutts says decisions to close an account “are not taken lightly”.

Banks would also be required to explain why an account is being shut, and give a longer notice period, under tougher rules to be brought in