Royal Automobile Club Faces Scandal Over Member Misconduct

The Royal Automobile Club, a venerable institution founded in 1897 with King Charles as its patron, is currently at the center of a scandal involving the misconduct of some of its members. Duncan Wiltshire, the club's chairman, has publicly addressed the increasing number of incidents of improper conduct.

In the RAC's quarterly magazine, Wiltshire stated that senior managers are handling a growing number of cases where members exhibit rudeness towards employees, use profanity, or make inappropriate comments. He also noted a rise in disciplinary issues stemming from members being disrespectful to one another.

"This is just the tip of the iceberg," Wiltshire admitted, referencing a comment from a longtime member at the club's annual general meeting who observed staff under significant pressure attributed to "certain types of members." Wiltshire acknowledged the validity of this observation.

Members of the Royal Automobile Club, which originated as a motoring club and later spawned the RAC roadside assistance business, pay a joining fee of £6,000 plus annual membership costs. The organization also manages a clubhouse and a golf course in Epsom, Surrey. Notable members include fashion designer Sir Paul Smith and former Conservative transport secretary Chris Grayling.

Wiltshire has urged members to respond with "good grace" when reminded of the club's rules and to resolve disagreements with "politeness and understanding."