Prescott pulls out of business convention
The former Deputy Prime Minister had been due to share the stage with Michael Portillo in a head-to-head debate at the convention in Leeds on June 15.
The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate is due to appear the same day as headline speaker.
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Hide AdOrganiser Mike Firth told the Yorkshire Post that Lord Prescott “has been pondering his involvement with YIBC for a couple of weeks. He has strong political connections with China and doesn’t want to offend them with possible ‘Tibet’ issues”.
Mr Firth added: “I talked to him yesterday and suggested he should withdraw, rather than appear half-heartedly. He agreed.
“The Dalai Lama is appearing in a non-political role and will not be talking [on] China or Tibet issues.
“He will be talking about humanity and ethics which are clearly topical subjects.”
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Hide AdChina has ruled Tibet since 1950. It rejects criticism that it is suppressing Tibetan culture and faith, claiming its rule has brought development to a backward region.
Lord Prescott did not respond to calls for comment from the Yorkshire Post.
Other YIBC speakers include retail-guru-turned-government-adviser, Mary Portas, and Sir Richard Branson’s former right-hand man, Will Whitehorn.