Last week, Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce (TVCC) hosted a highly anticipated Political Working Lunch (PWL) with Peter Swallow, MP for Bracknell, Crowthorne, Sandhurst and Whitegrove. The first in a series of Chamber led PWL events, the event was hosted by Sophia Oliphant, Director, 3M UK in Bracknell and facilitated by Justin Govier, Head of IBB Commercial, IBB Law.
During the session, Peter shared his appetite to hear and understand the perspectives of local businesses and his commitment to ensuring Westminster sees the value of the Thames Valley economy. There were questions on the pressing issues facing businesses today, locally and nationally such as acknowledging the work to do in getting young people engaged in business, and wider policy issues such as changes to the national planning policy framework to unlock development sites for housing and employment land.
The event covered a range of topics, including the upcoming changes in legislation, the role of education in “the classics”, and devolution of power from Westminster to the regions.
Peter Swallow said “It was fantastic to join TVCC and business leaders in discussing local and national priorities for growth and investment. We have a dynamic and entrepreneurial community here in Bracknell and across the Thames Valley, so it’s great to have opportunities to share our joint priorities and dig into the detail of the Government’s agenda”.
Paul Britton, CEO, TVCC said: “We are grateful to Peter for taking on the role of champion for the Bracknell business community, and the willingness to listen and respond to members. This event brought together a diverse representation of employers and will be the start of an ongoing conversation. We welcome the opportunity to work with Peter Swallow MP to explore the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the Thames Valley business community.”
Justin Govier, Head of IBB Commercial said: “It was an absolute pleasure to facilitate the discussion between representatives of key local and global businesses in Bracknell and newly elected MP Peter Swallow. We were encouraged by Peter’s open-door policy and his commitment to understanding the challenges businesses face.
“It’s also inspiring to hear the Thames Valley recognised by Government as vital to Britain’s growth. My thanks to the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce for inviting me to be part of such a meaningful conversation.”
The TVCC Political Working Lunch is an event that has been running for over twenty years and continues to be valued by local employers to provide a platform between local political figures, and a link into Westminster.
