Conservative Party Conference: Driving economic growth through pan-regional partnership

Midlands Engine were in attendance for Conservative Party Conference this year, promoting the incredible work of our partners in advancing our region’s economy and communities.

It was fantastic to welcome Minister for Housing, Lee Rowley MP, and Lord Adebowale to speak alongside Midlands Engine Chairman Sir John Peace at the Midlands Engine Reception.

Midlands Engine Chairman, Sir John Peace and Lord Adebowale

Sir John shared his insights on the importance of truly collaborative, pan-regional partnership in driving economic growth, while Lord Adebowale shared his views on the link between health and the economy, and the importance of addressing persistent healthcare inequalities in the Midlands. Minister Rowley provided a look ahead to future regional economic growth within the context of levelling up.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Nadhim Zahawi MP

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Chloe Smith MP

The Conservative Conference was also an opportunity to showcase partner achievements with a number of Ministers at the Midlands Engine stand, including: Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Chloe Smith MP; Secretary of State for Transport, Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP; Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Nadhim Zahawi MP; and Conservative Party Vice-Chairman, Saqib Bhatti MP.

Secretary of State for Transport, Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP

Regional leaders also visited the partnership stand, including Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street and Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, Cllr Ben Bradley MP.

Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street

It was fantastic to see them alongside Leader Solihull Council, Cllr Ian Courts, Leader of Harborough District Council, Cllr Phil King, Lord Taylor of Holbeach, Lord Whitby, Cllr Rebbekah Collins, Cllr Philip Atkins, Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicester and Leicestershire, Rupert Matthews, Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, Caroline Henry, and Dr Nik Kotecha – Chair Midlands Engine Health Board and CEO of Morningside Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Midlands Engine Chairman, Sir John Peace and Nottinghamshire County Council Leader and MP for Mansfield, Cllr Ben Bradley MP