Deputy Governor of the Bank of England Awarded City of London Freedom
Sir Jon Cunliffe, the Deputy Governor responsible for Financial Stability at the Bank of England, was honored with the Freedom of the City of London today, acknowledging his significant contributions to the UK’s financial sector.
Beyond his pivotal role in maintaining financial stability, Sir Jon, who assumed his position in November 2013, also directs the supervision and oversight of financial market infrastructures and payment systems.
He actively participates as a member of several key committees and boards within the Bank, including the Financial Policy and Monetary Policy Committees, the Bank’s Court of Directors, and the Prudential Regulatory Committee, as well as engaging in the G20 Financial Stability Board Steering Committee.
Nominated by the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Nicholas Lyons, and the City Corporation’s Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, Sir Jon was present for his ceremony at Guildhall today, joined by special guests.
Lord Mayor Nicholas Lyons extended his gratitude to Sir Jon for his outstanding contributions to the financial services sector and, broadly, to the UK as a pivotal global finance hub.
He commended Sir Jon’s decades-long service and his instrumental role in fostering financial stability and stringent regulation, expressing delight in supporting his well-deserved nomination.
Policy Chairman Chris Hayward expressed deep respect for Sir Jon’s commitment and noted his invaluable expertise in financial stability and development, deeming them as treasured assets to the Square Mile. He praised Sir Jon’s legendary service to both the City of London and the larger UK economy, affirming the appropriateness of honoring him as a Freeman of the City of London.
Post-ceremony, Sir Jon Cunliffe conveyed his deep honor in receiving the Freedom of the City of London, extending heartfelt thanks to Lord Mayor Nicholas Lyons, Policy Chairman Chris Hayward, and the City of London Corporation.
Having worked in various capacities with the City Corporation for over three decades, Sir Jon spoke highly of its role both nationally and internationally, and expressed appreciation for its dedication to collaboratively work with the government and regulators for societal benefit.
He warmly embraced this historic honor, steeped in the traditions of a vibrant and innovative global financial center, expressing great pride in being a recipient.
The Freedom of the City of London, one of its ancient traditions dating back to 1237, allows recipients the liberty to practice their trade. The City of London Corporation offers it not only through nominations or applications but also proactively as a means to recognize exceptional contributions to London or public life, or to commemorate noteworthy accomplishments.
Some recent distinguished recipients of this honor include musician Ed Sheeran, theatre mogul Sir Cameron Mackintosh, LGBTQ+ activist and London Night Czar Amy Lamé, and Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert, the spearhead behind the development of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.
