An independent investigation into UK’s former data commissioner John Edwards has uncovered evidence of “monstrous and extremely sexualised language” used with staff — just days after his resignation.
Following an investigation that upheld multiple allegations against the commissioner, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall confirmed in a LinkedIn post that “multiple women shared testimony to the investigator on feeling offended, horrified, and uncomfortable following interactions with Mr Edwards.” Kendall stated she has “seen evidence of the monstrous and extremely sexualised language” used in Edwards’ interactions with his own staff, and expressed gratitude to those who came forward.
Edwards voluntarily stepped back from his duties on February 26 to allow an independent workplace investigation to proceed. The investigation found there was a “case to answer” and that Edwards’ behaviour “fell short of the conduct expected from a public official.”
In his own LinkedIn post, Edwards acknowledged there were times when he “exercised poor judgment” and “made attempts at humour that were ill-judged.” However, Kendall expressed concern that Edwards continues to frame the incidents as misplaced humour, stating that “such behaviour does not belong in the workplace, least of all exhibited by the leader of an organisation.”
The ICO updated its statement following Kendall’s post, adding: “Mr Edwards’ actions were entirely at odds with our values. We do not accept sexual harassment, bullying, or discrimination in any form and have specific policies in place to address issues like these.” The office thanked staff “who courageously shared their experiences as part of the independent investigation.”
According to MLex, staff had frequently described Edwards as “a bully,” and comments about the ICO’s office culture had become “increasingly frequent since the investigation began.”
