BCC chief steps down amid accusations of government pressure

The chief of the British Chambers of Commerce stepped down over the weekend after calling for the UK to exit the European Union, although one report indicated the business lobby had in fact come under pressure to ask for his resignation.

After calling for 'Brexit' on 3 March, BCC boss John Longworth tendered his resignation - which was accepted - so that his personal views on the referendum did not create confusion around the BCC's 'neutral' stance ahead of the vote.

"John's personal view on the referendum is likely to create confusion regarding the BCC's neutral stance going forward. In light of this, John has taken the decision to step down as Director-General and his resignation has been accepted," BCC President Nora Senior said in a statement.

Longworth had said it was his personal observation that the European Union was incapable of meaningful reform and the UK had a bright future outside the bloc.

"All representatives of the BCC have the right to personal and political views on the key issues of the day. However, they are not expected to articulate these views while acting in their professional capacity, as their views could be misconstrued as representing the position of the organisation as a whole."

The Financial Times reported on Saturday that he had been suspended for his comments.

An unnamed friend of Longworth said the Prime Minister's office had put pressure on the BCC board to suspend him, The Sunday Telegraph reported.

London Mayor Boris Johnson said it was "scandalous" the government had forced Longworth to resign for holding a "passionate optimistic view".

Johnson's remarks reportedly received the endorsement of former Defence Secretary Liam Fox.

"This is not a hysterical witch hunt," Liam told the BBC.

The BCC denied that any politician or interest group had influenced its decision and that it had been agreed upon by both the business lobby group and Longworth himself.