Vicky Pryce Reinstated As Govt Economics Adviser

Vicky Pryce, who served a jail sentence for accepting speeding points from her former husband Chris Huhne, will return to a role advising Government ministers.

Vince Cable, the Lib Dem Business Secretary, has decided she will continue on a panel of economists that speaks to ministers and civil servants about the "prospects of growth and business investment".

"We believe in restorative justice," said a source.

"People need to be given the chance to move on. What she did we felt in no way affected her judgement or abilities as an economist."

Ms Pryce sat on the panel for 10 years - including when she was chief economist within the department. It is an unpaid role.

She served 62 days of an eight-month sentence for perverting the course of justice after it emerged she had taken the points for Mr Huhne, then a Cabinet minister.

The pair, who have separated acrimoniously, were both jailed.

Ms Pryce's reputation was further damaged when she was stripped of a state honour for her work as an economist.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg appeared to open the door for Ms Pryce to make a prominent Lib Dem return earlier this month.

Asked if he would support Ms Pryce if she stood for Parliament on Nick Ferrari’s Call Clegg show on LBC radio, the Lib Dem leader replied: "I remain full of admiration for her. She is a highly accomplished economist. I hope to see her continue to make a contribution to public life."

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