Suffolk: Adnams may withdraw from CBI amid misconduct claims

Southwold's Adnams is concerned about the situation at the business organisation, which represents more than 190,000 companies, after its director-general Tony Danker left the organisation in the wake of allegations of misconduct among staff.

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Three other employees have been suspended.

A private law firm is investigating claims involving CBI staff, including allegations in relation to a summer boat party organised by the confederation in 2019.

Adnams chief executive Andy Wood said: "The CBI has been totally rocked by what has happened. There has been some very serious things going on and I am pleased they have acted quickly and decisively.

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"There are three other employees under suspension, so this isn’t over yet. There is no place for the type of workplace behaviour being alleged.  

Tony Danker has been sacked as director-general of the CBI (Image: Jonathan Brady/PA)

"I am also encouraged that they have made an appointment at board level of a chief people officer and that this individual's first job alongside the president and with external support will be to conduct a root and branch review of their culture and working practices.

"The appointment of Rain (Newton-Smith) as director-general is positive, she was an employee of the CBI for many years and will be well known and credible to members and importantly is a known quantity to CBI staff."

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Mr Wood added that the CBI 'needed to set the standard for workplace behaviour'.

Adnams has been operating for more than 150 years and runs stores, hotels, pubs and inns while creating premium beers and spirits.

At the end of March, the brewery welcomed Anne, the Princess Royal for a visit to coincide with the 150th anniversary celebrations.

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