The curse of Ash

clock

In space no one can hear you scream, but someone certainly needs to scream at the FSA over its suggestion the UK's financial services industry will survive an influenza ‘pandemic'.

The mention of Ash above is, for those unawares, reference to the robot character played by actor Ian Holm in the 1979 science-fiction film Alien. Ash essentially tells members of the unfortunate crew of the spaceship Nostromo they are going to be alright even if exposed to the ‘alien’ in question, despite having secret orders suggesting exposure will at the least be uncomfortable – and as the audience knows very actually lethal. Ash himself also tries to kill the only member of the crew to question his robotic judgement. It would not do to suggest the FSA is trying directly to do the s...

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

MPs urge one-year delay to farm inheritance tax reforms

MPs urge one-year delay to farm inheritance tax reforms

Cross-party EFRA committee warns proposed IHT changes risk harming vulnerable farmers

Sahar Nazir
clock 16 May 2025 • 2 min read
Behind the advice: The hidden mental health struggles of financial advisers

Behind the advice: The hidden mental health struggles of financial advisers

As Mental Health Awareness Week spotlights wellbeing across industries, advisers speak out

Sahar Nazir
clock 16 May 2025 • 7 min read
IHT on pensions overhaul risks fuelling scams against 'fearful' public

IHT on pensions overhaul risks fuelling scams against 'fearful' public

Claire Trott calls for clarity on 2027 Budget reform that will bring pensions into estate tax scope

Sahar Nazir
clock 16 May 2025 • 3 min read