Economist to lead think-tank

THE Institute of Public Policy Research, the leading left- of-centre think-tank, has drafted in a heavyweight private-sector economist to direct the organisation in the crucial policy-making period up to the next general election, writes Patricia Wynn Davies.

The appointment of Gerald Holtham, 49, of City brokers Lehman Brothers, is calculated to boost the instit ute's standing in the economic sphere at a time when Labour is moving towards key decisions on economic policy before drawing up its manifesto.

The institute is an independent charitable organisation, but has strong links with Labour.

Mr Holtham, born in South Wales and a known Labour sympathiser, is chief economist at Lehman Brothers Europe and an affiliate professor at the Centre for Economic Forecasting, London Business School.

He will replace the current director, James Cornford, in the autumn. The appointment is planned to run for three years.

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