Pro-Brexit thinktank forced to change name after calling itself an 'institute' without permission
The Institute for Free Trade is to now be referred to as the 'IFT'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A thinktank, set up by pro-Brexit Conservative MEP Daniel Hannan, has been forced to change its name after it called itself an “institute” without permission.
The word “institute” is protected by law and can only be used by organisation if either Companies House or the Business Secretary grant permission for it to do so.
This is only done if it is believed that research is being undertaken at the “highest level” or the professional body is of the “highest standing”.
The Institute for Free Trade (IFT), launched by Mr Hannan at an event that was controversially given permission by Boris Johnson to take place at a Foreign Office venue, used the term “institute” in numerous places on its website.
The thinktank, which is officially registered as the Initiative for International Trade Ltd, has now opted to call itself the IFT, with no explanation of what the initials stand for.
Companies House said it was aware of the IFT’s use of the term and would be making contact, the Observer reported.
“It is an offence to use a sensitive word set out in regulations in a business name without the prior approval of the secretary of state,” a spokeswoman said.
“The offence is committed by the company and every officer of the company. The person(s) guilty of an offence is liable to a fine.”
A spokeswoman for the IFT told the Observer: “Established as a not-for-profit earlier in the year, the IFT now has a registered office and permanent staff, and is taking advice from Companies House regarding the trading name of IFT.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments