On 11 February 2025, the Treasury Committee published letters to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) about the circumstances that surrounded the departure of the Chief Ombudsman, Abby Thomas, last week. 

The letters were written following a session in which members of the Committee were not satisfied that they received the answers to their questions on the subject. The Committee raises concerns in the letters that the circumstances surrounding the departure of Ms Thomas did not appear to be fully shared with it, preventing its members from forming a full understanding of the process that led to her exit and what it means for the administration of the FOS.

The Committee asks for further information including in relation to:

• The events surrounding Ms Thomas’ departure and the nature of the discussions as they progressed.
• Any settlement agreed with Ms Thomas.
• Whether senior officials had concerns regarding her performance.