UK journalist Martin Blackham has lodged a formal complaint against Barclaycard, alleging anti-Semitism over a credit limit issue.
- Blackham claims the credit limit is crucial for his safety while working in conflict zones.
- The journalist highlighted a lack of response from Barclays for over a month.
- He has called for an immediate restoration of his credit limit and a comprehensive investigation.
- Barclays has responded, citing standard fraud prevention measures as the cause for the credit limit reduction.
Martin Blackham, a British journalist reporting from Israel, has formally accused Barclaycard of anti-Semitism due to a dispute over his credit limit. Blackham insists that maintaining his credit limit is essential for his safety while working abroad in conflict areas.
In a letter addressed to Barclays Bank CEO C.S. Venkatakrishnan and shared with Business Matters, Blackham revealed his frustration at receiving no response from the bank for over a month. He first contacted Barclaycard on 8th August 2024, but did not receive even a courtesy reply.
Blackham emphasised the importance of having access to emergency funds for journalists covering overseas conflicts, suggesting that the denial of such facilities could endanger his life. ‘The lack of action from Barclaycard staff, especially while I am stationed in Israel, clearly indicates anti-Semitism,’ Blackham stated in his letter.
He has called for a thorough investigation into the matter and demands that his current credit limit be restored immediately. Blackham’s complaint highlights broader concerns about discrimination within corporate environments, especially towards professionals in high-risk occupations like journalism.
Barclays has responded to the allegations by explaining that they contact customers with significant periods of inactivity on their Barclaycard, advising them to make a transaction within 90 days to maintain their existing credit limit. ‘The reduction of the credit limit forms part of our wider fraud prevention activity,’ a Barclays spokesperson noted.
The incident draws attention to the critical support required by journalists working in dangerous conditions abroad, particularly in conflict zones such as Gaza. The outcome of Blackham’s complaint could set a precedent for how financial institutions address similar issues moving forward.
The resolution of Martin Blackham’s complaint against Barclaycard may influence future practices regarding financial support for professionals in conflict zones.
