UK Government Appoints Professor John Van Reenen as Adviser on Economic Growth

Strategic Insights -

Professor John Van Reenen, an expert in productivity, has been appointed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves as an adviser on economic growth. As a renowned productivity expert, Van Reenen will help deliver the government's mission to kickstart economic growth and raise living standards across the country. His appointment, which begins in September, is part of the Plan for Change initiative. Van Reenen will report directly to the Chancellor, continuing to focus on the growth mission.

Key Takeaways:

  • Professor John Van Reenen has been appointed as an adviser on economic growth by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, effective September 2023.
  • Van Reenen will work one day a week without pay for 12 months, with the option to extend.
  • He will advise the Chancellor on productivity, investment, and growth, utilizing his research and experience from academia.
  • Van Reenen previously worked as Chair of the Chancellor's Council of Economic Advisers and will continue to report directly to the Chancellor.
  • He will focus on the Plan for Change's growth mission and help deliver the government's mission to raise living standards across the country.
  • Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that the government has "fixed the foundations" but still needs to build an economy that works for working people.
  • Van Reenen's appointment is a part of the government's ongoing effort to drive forward productivity, investment, and growth in the UK.

Statistics:

  • The appointment is unpaid, with Van Reenen working one day a week for 12 months.
  • The government aims to kickstart economic growth and raise living standards across the country through the Plan for Change initiative.
  • The UK government has secured economic stability, delivered three major trade deals, and become the fastest-growing economy in the G7.
  • Van Reenen has extensive experience in academia, focusing on productivity, company performance, and innovation.
  • The appointment of Van Reenen as an adviser on economic growth is a ministerial appointment, reports directly to the Chancellor.

Sources:

  • The UK Government's official news release.