WORKING together is the solution to the banking crisis, according to Barclays chairman Marcus Agius.

Speaking to pro.manchester members at The Lowry Hotel on Monday, Agius acknowledged banks had made ‘serious mistakes’ but they were not alone in this.

He added: “There was no bank that did not make serious mistakes, but there were also mistakes in public policy and monetary policy.

“What is important is how we move forward together to ensure we do what is best for the future. Reform is necessary; it cannot be solved by increasing taxes alone.

“The recovery is still pretty fragile. Companies and banks must work together to stimulate economic growth.”

Agius has been a non-executive director of Barclays since 1 September 2006. He was previously chairman of the London branch of investment bank Lazard and non-executive chairman of BAA Limited.

You can see more images from the event here