Gordon Brown MP has spoken about the urgent need for progressive globalisation and how it can be managed to deliver a future of jobs and justice.

The former Prime Minister set out his views to a select gathering of top Scots business leaders in South Queensferry where he was the keynote speaker at the Scottish Chairman’s Workshop (‘SCW’), chaired by Professor Nick Kuenssberg.

The growth in emerging economies will add a further 2 billion middle class consumers to the world economy, Gordon Brown argued, and that had to be seen as a huge opportunity for Western business. He also argued that education is of central importance in the global economy and could become one of Scotland's biggest exports.

Established two years ago by the University of Glasgow’s Business School and leading business and financial advisers, Grant Thornton, the SCW provides a forum for Chairs of listed and large private Scottish companies, as well as public sector organisations.  These discussions take place under Chatham House rule.  

Andrew Howie, Managing Partner at Grant Thornton Scotland, said: “Securing Gordon Brown was a real coup. It was interesting to hear his insight on what is required for the future of the business community. Over the past two years we’ve attracted key business leaders who have all provided different perspectives, and our forum was keen to engage in the debate.”

Previously, members of the SCW have had the opportunity to listen to perspectives on the banking system from Sir Peter Burt, former Governor of the Bank of Scotland and John McFall, MP (now Lord McFall of Alcluith), during his tenure as Chair of the Treasury Select Committee. Speakers at the SCW this year have included, Norman Murray, Chairman of Cairn Energy plc, who discussed corporate governance in an entrepreneurial environment and Tom Purves, ex-CEO of Rolls Royce Motor Cars who shared his views on the value of brand in innovation.

Professor Robert MacIntosh from the University of Glasgow, said: “The SCW represents a great example of the Business School working with industry leaders.  Chairing a business in today’s environment is a major challenge and the chance to learn from other chairs and share experiences is invaluable. We’ve been lucky to have excellent speakers and high-calibre delegates which helps create an interesting conversation."

Further information:
Martin Shannon, Senior Media Relations Officer
University of Glasgow Tel: 0141 330 8593

First published: 20 April 2011

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