LONDON: The Business Advisory Group will allow ministers to hear industry’s concerns about economic policy and issues including David Cameron’s renegotiation of the UK’s links with Europe ahead of the in/out referendum.
The group will meet on a quarterly basis from this autumn and includes leaders from a wide range of industries from manufacturing to retail.
Asda boss Andy Clarke said: “It’s a privilege to have been asked by the Prime Minister to join his business advisory panel. I know how important the customer is to business success, and with over 30 years’ experience in retail, the importance of dedication and customer service has never changed – after all Britain is a nation of shopkeepers.”
Santander chairwoman Ana Botin said: “I’m very pleased to join the Business Advisory Group. I believe dialogue between government and business is vital to growth and prosperity as we aim to boost UK productivity.
“I look forward to serious discussion about the opportunities and challenges businesses face during the rebalancing of the economy.”
Downing Street said the group will “act as a sounding board through which ministers can listen to and debate concerns and priorities facing industry, and can discuss the Government’s economic and business policies around key areas such as productivity, European reform and housing”.
