Gordon Brown’s ‘terrified’ staff called anti-bullying helpline

LONDON - The “terrified” staff of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who has been accused of verbally attacking and manhandling employees, allegedly contacted the country’s anti-bullying helpline.

Christine Pratt, who runs the National Bullying Helpline, said she consoled members of staff at Downing Street who she believed were “working in a bullying culture”.

“We have had three or four calls from within his office,” The Sun quoted Pratt as saying.

She added: “Over recent months we have had several inquiries from staff within Gordon Brown’s office. Some called our helpline directly and I have spoken to staff in his office.”

The revelation comes after political commentator Andrew Rawnsley accused Brown of being a bully in a new book The End Of The Party.

Britain’s most senior civil servant, Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O’Donnell, was also reported to have warned the Prime Minister against his “volcanic temper”.

However, the Cabinet Office and Downing Street have both denied the allegations.

A spokeswoman said: “It is completely untrue to say the Cabinet Secretary ever gave the PM a verbal warning about his behaviour.”

A Downing Street spokesman also added: “At no time has the National Bullying Helpline contacted No10 about these allegations.

“We have rigorous, well established procedures in place to allow any member of staff to address any concerns over inappropriate treatment or behaviour. The Civil Service will continue to have a o-tolerance policy on bullying.” (ANI)