Multimillionaire British businessman ‘granted secrecy over sexual harassment claims’

The man, supposedly one of the UK’s ‘richest and most powerful figures’, reportedly agreed large settlements with two of his accusers

The businessman is said to have been involved in a year-long legal battle to prevent reporting of his identity (iStock)

A multi-millionaire businessman has been allowed to remain anonymous after he faced sexual harassment and assault allegations in an employment case, it has been reported.

The Times newspaper said the man, described as one of the British establishment’s richest and most powerful figures, agreed large financial settlements with two women last year before an employment tribunal was due to take place.

As part of the settlement the women had to withdraw the claims and sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), The Times said.

The newspaper reported that one of the women claimed she was attacked and orally raped in his private office, while another woman said she was groped by him at his country residence.

Men and women who worked with the two alleged victims also provided witness statements detailing physical assaults, bullying and ill treatment when working for the man, according to The Times.

The newspaper said the man has always denied the allegations.

The Times said it had fought a legal battle for more than a year for the right to report the case, but said a judge’s ruling prevented it from naming him.

The newspaper said it decided to publish a redacted report in Saturday’s edition to highlight the threat to open justice and the continued use of NDAs to silence alleged victims.

NDAs came under scrutiny as allegations of sexual assault and misconduct emerged with the MeToo movement.

Sometimes referred to as “gagging clauses”, NDAs are legal contracts used to prevent people from discussing confidential information and keep trade secrets private.

But it is clear they can be used to keep allegations of wrongdoing out of the press.

Last month, MPs criticised employers who “routinely” use NDAs to cover up allegations of unlawful discrimination and harassment in the workplace.

A report from the House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee said the practice was “completely unacceptable”.

Press Association