FABRIC SELLER COULDN’T PAY ITS SUPPLIERS

MARTYN Fisher’s business Fisher Fabrics had its account locked for a fortnight by HSBC.

The 61-year- old’s business, which he runs from Keighley, West Yorkshire, with wife Beverley, finds clothing material from around the world for manufacturers in Britain and abroad.

He said he was sent a ‘huge questionnaire’ 18 months ago by HSBC, which he filled in.

This was followed by a lengthy telephone interview, then follow-up questions including personal queries about his savings and mortgage.

But although Fisher insists he supplied all details he was asked for, the bank still told him his account would be frozen. It was released when the bank’s behaviour was criticised in public.

‘I couldn’t make payments and I couldn’t transfer money into a sterling account,’ he said.

‘Fortunately, I have a very good relationship with the people who supply me. I was able to muddle along but I know other people who couldn’t pay their wages.’