Terror test for finance industry

The FSA helped organise a crisis test for the finance industry

Finance workers across the UK have dealt with the aftermath of a simulated terrorist bombing campaign.

The simulation was part of an annual crisis management exercise led by HM Treasury, the Bank of England and the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

The desk-based test involved more than a thousand workers and 80 firms, and had other scenarios including natural disasters and infrastructure problems.

Many companies also chose to run their own exercises alongside the main event.

"We had simulated casualties, areas cordoned off, evacuations, even TV reporters interviewing witnesses," said FSA spokesperson Rob McIvor.

"Everybody has learnt lessons from the July 7 attacks."

Consultants KPMG will report early next year on the effectiveness of the test.