Over the summer, Barclays told its UK staff that from October 5, most people coming into the office two days a week would need to come in at least three, and managing directors and above would need four. On September 29, with six days to go, the bank's executive committee told staff it was extending the implementation period and reviewing its flexible working policy. Employees could defer until 2027 if their line manager agreed. On the same day, a spokesperson said the updated arrangements would take effect as planned.

Thousands of staff had signed an open letter drafted by Unite, which represents around 36,000 of the bank's employees, asking for support such as travel allowances and childcare vouchers. When asked why senior staff needed a fourth day, Barclays said it would support "collaboration, decision-making and leadership visibility."

Those are the facts as reported, from an analysis in The European by Marcus Iles. Everything below is my opinion.

My position: a number of days is not a strategy.…