Labour Cuts Links To CBI, Urging 'Root And Branch' Reform

The Labour party has cut all ties with the Confederation of British Industry after the Guardian's revelations about alleged sexual misconduct by male employees at the lobbying group.

- Jasper Jolly, Anna Isaac, Martin Belam

The CBI experienced an exodus of major members at the end of last week, including Aviva, John Lewis, Jaguar Land Rover and Natwest Group. Firms said the CBI was unable to carry out its role effectively following the allegations, after a second woman alleged to the Guardian that she was raped by two male colleagues when she worked at the CBI.

Jonathan Ashworth, the shadow work and pensions secretary, told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme that the lobby group needed "a root and branch review and reform process".

Asked if the party would cut its links with the CBI, Ashworth said: "Well, we have done," adding that the party had ceased all contact. He said: "I just feel for the people who have been victims, and that the CBI has really got to get its house in order."