In a statement, the UK Government confirmed that Sir Lewis will advise the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster “on both immediate improvements and any necessary long term changes to UK supply chains for goods, and will work with government officials to quickly resolve acute, short term issues.”
It is said that Sir Lewis will work closely with the Prime Minister, No10 and the Treasury, and will be based in the Cabinet Office. He has been appointed until the end of the year and shall begin work this coming Monday.
The ex-Tesco chief has been tasked with identifying the causes of current blockages and pre-empting potential future ones. He shall also advise on resolutions either through direct government action or through industry with Government support. Moreover, it is said that Sir Lewis “will work closely with industry to improve government access to data and build the most effective methods into future responses to blockages.”
Furthermore, Sir Lewis shall co-chair the new Supply Chain Advisory Group, which consists of external experts in the field, and the new Industry Taskforce, in order “to ensure those on the ground have the opportunity to voice their concerns and advise on the most efficient resolutions.”
Commenting on the appointment, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
I’m pleased that Sir David Lewis is joining the team who have been working on future proofing our supply chains across the United Kingdom as we recover from the pandemic. There are currently global supply issues which we are working with industry to mitigate and Dave brings a wealth of experience which will help us continue to protect our businesses and supply chains.
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