Bank of Scotland Considers Abandoning Deal with US Evangelist Pat Robertson

Bank of Scotland is under intense pressure to reconsider its controversial deal with US television evangelist Pat Robertson, following his derogatory comments about Scotland as a "dark land" that has lost its morals. The bank announced that it would meet Robertson and its partners in Boston tomorrow to discuss the situation, amidst mounting criticism from churches, trade unions, and local authorities in Scotland. The deal, which was initially met with excitement, has turned sour after Robertson's recent remarks in which he described Scotland's strong homosexual community and warned that the country could fall back into darkness if it didn't mend its ways.

Key Takeaways:

Bank of Scotland's share price fell by almost 4% yesterday, losing 35.5p to 84.6p.
The bank is considering abandoning the deal with Pat Robertson, citing mounting criticism and the possibility of large customers closing their accounts.
Scottish parliament members intend to urge the parliament to switch its account from Bank of Scotland in response to Robertson's comments.
West Lothian council, with an annual budget of about £250m, is considering moving its accounts from the bank.
Since announcing the deal in March, Bank of Scotland has seen 400-500 accounts closed.
The joint venture would have Bank of Scotland with 60% stake, Robertson Financial Services with 25%, and Marshall & Ilsey with 15%.

Statistics:

£250m: West Lothian council's annual budget.
4%: Bank of Scotland's share price drop yesterday.
35.5p: Bank of Scotland's share price loss.
84.6p: Bank of Scotland's new share price.
400-500: Number of accounts closed since announcing the deal in March.
60%: Bank of Scotland's stake in the joint venture.
£250m: West Lothian council's budget.
23%: Robertson Financial Services' stake in the joint venture.
15%: Marshall & Ilsey's stake in the joint venture.

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