Paul’s place in PM dream-team

ROYTON-BORN Paul Walsh was today named by David Cameron as part of a new group of industry leaders to provide him with “high–level” business and economic advice.

The Business Advisory Group will meet every three months and advise on “critical business and economic issues facing the country”, Downing Street said.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, Chancellor George Osborne and Business Secretary Vince Cable will attend meetings of the group, which will be chaired by Mr Cameron.

Mr Walsh is one of the highest-paid businessmen in Britain, as chief executive of Diageo, the world’s biggest drinks firm with brands such as Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker and Guinness.

A former Oldham College student, he went to Royton and Crompton School, and started his career with the Co-op before moving to America where he became chief executive of the giant US dough company, Pillsbury.

In 2007, he was given an honorary degree from University Campus Oldham.

The Prime Minister said he hoped the mix of experience and expertise on the advisory group would allow for “real interaction and discussion”.

Members of the new group will be able to debate with the Prime Minister and senior ministers the priorities facing the economy, as well as strategically-important sectors.