The brother of former US president George Bush has been hired as a consultant by a company in Zhejiang province.
The Xiaoshan-based Wanxiang Group, which produces industrial bearings, wanted Prescott Bush to help expand its business in the United States, company spokesman Cheng Jie said yesterday.
Mr Bush had not been given specific responsibilities and would be paid according to his contribution, said Mr Cheng.
'He doesn't have set responsibilities. When we need his help, we will contact him.' Mr Bush had provided Wanxiang with similar services in the past concerning its business in the US. Wanxiang set up a subsidiary in Chicago in 1995 and is a supplier to General Motors.
The company hired Mr Bush because of his wide connections.
Mr Cheng said: 'He has many friends. Even though he may not be involved in the same field as we are, he can go to his friends for help in resolving our issues.' Mr Bush's nephew, George W. Bush - son of the former president - is the current Republican frontrunner in the 2000 US presidential election race.