UK Firm Embroiled in 'No Blacks, No Irish' Hoodie Controversy
A speaker at an event hosted by the firm wore the offending item of clothing.
October 21, 2019 at 10:50 AM
3 minute read
Solicitors Regulation Authority
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has been sent a complaint regarding a speaker at a conference hosted by U.K. top 100 firm Winckworth Sherwood.
The complaint, seen by Legal Week, relates to an event held by money laundering industry association MLROs.com, which was sponsored by and hosted at Winckworth's London office in September.
The complaint alleges that one of the event speakers Sameer Ismail arrived wearing a hoodie emblazoned with the slogan "No Blacks, No Irish", which several delegates found "extremely offensive".
It claims that several attendees complained to Winckworth partner Jon Baldwin about Ismail's attire, and that Ismail was asked to change his clothes before speaking.
Although the complaint commended the firm for "acting quickly", it added: "They [Winckworth] must take responsibility for the offence caused by Mr Ismail's original clothing."
It said: "The firm only acted after several delegates complained and some were visibly distressed. No apology was provided by the firm for what occurred. In other circumstances, I believe the actions of Mr Ismail may amount to a hate crime."
The complaint, signed by 'John Smith' is directed at Baldwin. According to a spokesman for the SRA, the complaint appears authentic but is yet to be recorded on the regulator's system.
A Winckworth spokesperson said in a statement: "This was an event hosted and managed by MLROs.com. Winckworth Sherwood provided the space for the event to take place. Our reception staff alerted us to the fact that a guest of MLROs.com was wearing offensive clothing. We immediately asked him to change his clothes or leave our offices.
"He left immediately and when he later returned we verified that he was no longer wearing the article of clothing. Winckworth Sherwood does not tolerate any form of offensive behaviour as our action in this situation clearly demonstrates. We will respond to any additional questions the SRA may have."
Ismail and MLROs.com did not respond to requests for comment.
According to the Legal Week top 100 rankings, Winckworth is the 72nd largest law firm in the U.K., turning over £43.2 million in the last financial year with an average profit per equity partner of £727,000.
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