In the continuing case of the former city drinks industry analyst previously employed by Schroder Securities Limited (SSL), the Chairman yesterday told an industrial tribunal that she was 'unhinged'.

Julie Bower is claiming sex discrimination, unequal pay, constructive dismissal and breach of contract. The claim follows Mrs Bower's accusation that she was paid hundreds of thousands of pounds less than male colleagues.

In the Telegraph report of the case, Philip Auger, Chairman of SSL, said that Mrs Bower assumed that she could impose her will on management, and at a grievance meeting in August of last year, she had stood up and started shouting and gesticulating. He described the incident as the most shocking moment of his professional life.