Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron was reportedly denied the purchase of a mobile phone by Vodafone, allegedly due to his classification as a “politically exposed person” (PEP), according to a report by The Times UK.
Cameron, now Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton, attempted to buy a mobile phone for one of his children at a Vodafone store in London earlier this year. However, his application was rejected—a move suspected to be linked to his past political role. Under financial regulations, individuals classified as PEPs are considered to be at greater risk of bribery or corruption due to their public positions, either current or former.
A source close to the former prime minister said they believed his status as a PEP may have triggered the rejection. “It’s been an issue in the past,” the source said. “Vodafone didn’t say why but it’s come up before. He did eventually get a phone.”
The incident adds to a growing list of complaints from UK political figures who say they have faced difficulties accessing basic financial services due to their PEP status. In 2023, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage accused private bank Coutts of closing his account for similar reasons. Farage, who has spoken out about the impact of PEP regulations, called the system “an outrage” and noted that even his children have been unfairly affected.
Former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt also shared that he was once refused an account by Monzo due to his political background, questioning the barriers faced by those in public life.
The issue has attracted attention at the highest levels, with former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other senior Conservatives calling for greater fairness in how banks and financial institutions treat political clients. Following Farage’s public row with Coutts, the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority urged major banks to review and improve their practices towards politically exposed individuals and their families.
Vodafone declined to comment on Cameron’s case.
