Statements following the discontinuation by the claimant of the court case against the MD

A Manchester City Council spokesperson said: "The case againsy former chief executive Joanne Roney, the Council and by extension its officers, has been discontinued by the claimant Benjamin Rose. There was not a shred of evidence that the alleged offensive remark was ever made. Our position has been completely vindicated.

“We remain implacably opposed to antisemitism and all other forms of hatred and discrimination.”  

Note: Benjamin Rose's side will pay the Council's legal costs of £95,000 under the terms of the settlement.

Joanne Roney CBE, said: "Everyone who knows me personally and professionally would know I would never say such a slur and I am pleased I am now vindicated. There was no evidence because I didn’t say it and would never say it. To have this allegation repeated widely over 3 years has been very distressing, not least to the many Jewish colleagues and communities I have worked with for many years. I am pleased this matter is now closed. And I thank everyone for their support."