What does the CBI do and is it still relevant in modern politics?

Britain’s trade lobby group has promised to be ‘be better’, but what role does it play in modern governance, asks Sean O’Grady

Tony Danker says he is ‘truly sorry’ (PA Archive)

With the sacking of director general Tony Danker, as an investigation takes place into allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) is facing the biggest crisis in its 58-year history. The probe has led to a “pause” in official contact with government departments – a serious predicament for a lobby group. Mr Danker will be replaced by Rain Newton-Smith, the organisation’s former chief economist.

Why did Tony Danker go?

The CBI has been rocked by allegations of a toxic workplace culture since Mr Danker was accused last month of allegedly making unwanted contact with a female employee. He agreed to step aside during an internal investigation conducted by law firm Fox Williams.