Stagecoach founder Ann Gloag to face no further action over human trafficking charges

Stagecoach founder Ann Gloag will not face any further action over charges of human trafficking, as decided by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal (COPFS). The COPFS confirmed that Dame Ann Gloag, who co-founded Stagecoach, was charged in January 2023 along with three others by Police Scotland for alleged human trafficking and immigration offenses. Throughout the process, Dame Ann vehemently denied the charges. On Wednesday, October 9, the COPFS declared that there would be no additional proceedings against Dame Ann Gloag or the other three individuals involved – two men and a woman.

In a statement following the decision, Dame Ann Gloag expressed her relief over the outcome and criticised the “malicious allegations” that she believes led to a waste of public funds and police resources. The COPFS specified that they would only consider reopening the case if new evidence emerged in the future. According to a spokesperson for the COPFS, the decision was made after a thorough review of the facts and evidence pertaining to the case, which involved incidents allegedly occurring between 2007 and 2022 and four individuals aged between 48 and 81 at the time.

The announcement of no further action against Dame Ann Gloag comes as a significant development, considering her prominent role as the co-founder of Stagecoach alongside her brother Sir Brian Souter. The company, established in 1980, has grown to become the largest bus and coach operator in the UK. Dame Ann, who was honoured with a damehood for her contributions to business and charity, also established the Gloag Foundation, a charitable trust focused on initiatives to alleviate poverty and promote education, health, and religion in the UK and abroad.

Dame Ann welcomed the decision by the COPFS, emphasising the toll the allegations had taken on her reputation and legacy. She expressed her gratitude for the resolution of the case and outlined her intentions to reflect on her charitable activities moving forward. As the COPFS concluded its review, the public prosecutor’s office stressed its readiness to revisit the case should fresh evidence surface, warranting further action in the interest of justice.

The closure of the investigation marks a crucial moment for Dame Ann Gloag and the other individuals involved, bringing an end to a challenging chapter that spanned several years. The decision not to pursue charges against Dame Ann Gloag underscores the complexities of legal proceedings and the significance of evidence in determining the course of justice. As Dame Ann prepares to move forward, she remains committed to her philanthropic endeavours and looks ahead to a new chapter following the resolution of the case.

The outcome of the case involving Dame Ann Gloag serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the thorough examination of evidence in legal matters. The decision by the COPFS to cease further proceedings brings a sense of closure to a contentious issue that has garnered public attention. As Dame Ann Gloag navigates the aftermath of the allegations, she remains steadfast in her dedication to charitable causes and shaping a positive impact on society.