New Tory Treasurer resigns before even starting job

A controversial tycoon who was set to be the Conservative Party treasurer has stood down before taking up the role, it was announced today.

David Rowland said his 'developing business interests' meant he would not have the time to do the job.

Mr Rowland, who returned to the UK from the Channel Islands last year in order to donate money to the Tories, said he would remain 'deeply committed' to the party.

He said: 'I was honoured to be asked to become treasurer.

'Unfortunately, my developing business interests mean I will not have the time to give that role the focus and attention it deserves.

'I remain deeply committed to the future success of the Conservative Party. David Cameron is a great leader of the party and of our country and I will continue to actively support him and the party in the years ahead.'

However, it is embarrassing to the Tories to lose such a high profile figure from its crucial fund-raising operation.

Mr Rowland is a legendary figure in the City who rose from poverty to amass an estimated fortune of £730million, reckoned to the 25th richest Briton.

The role will now be filled by Stanley Fink, currently co-treasurer with Michael Spencer, who is standing down after the Conservative Party conference.

A Tory spokesman said: 'We understand Mr Rowland's reasons for not taking up the role and remain grateful for his support.

'Stanley Fink is an outstanding co-treasurer and we are delighted that he will now take on the full role of party treasurer.'


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1304478/Tory-Treasurer-David-Rowland-resigns-starting-job.html

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