I had an account with the Midland Bank which I opened in the late 60's. Midland was subsequently taken over by HSBC, at which time I was assured that there would be no reduction in services and indeed clients could expect bigger and better things from the new parent company. Since leaving Guernsey I have lived in NZ for a number of years, but as I return to the Channel Islands every year it has suited me to keep the account going with a modest amount of funds (about 3000 - 4000 pounds) which I top up as and when required. The account has never been in overdraft. HSBC wrote to me a month ago and advised that due to change in policy they would close the account at the beginning of March. I rang their help line to explain my situation and was told, somewhat abruptly, that the matter was entirely un-negotiable and that I had the option of transferring the funds to any other bank of my choosing or being sent a cheque for the balance as at the date of closing. There may be valid reasons for wanting to close non-resident accounts, but the way they have gone about it is a somewhat dismal return for the loyalty that I have given to the Midland / HSBC franchise for nearly 50 years.
Voice For Victims
Voice for Victims is a campaign aimed at promoting the rights of those affected by child sexual abuse.
