VIDEO: Midlands Engine Conference reaction

Nottingham Trent University played host to around 400 business leaders yesterday morning. Business Minister unveiled a range of measures including a foreign investment hub that will be tasked with delivering £15m of investment into the region.

Sir John Peace, the recently appointed Midlands Engine chairman, told delegates about what has been achieved since the Midlands Engine prospectus was launched last December.

He said: “I have been very impressed since becoming the chair of the Midlands Engine with the tireless work that has already been put in by the public and private sectors to gear-up the Midlands Engine since it was launched just a few months ago.

“I believe we are now ready to very clearly and very loudly speak with one united voice on the world’s stage – The Midlands is the beating heart of UK manufacturing, we are the beating heart of the country and the home to global iconic businesses, we are a magnet for investment and we can deliver results which can drive forward the UK economy.

“Now that we know the result of the referendum, regardless of individual views on the outcome, we in the Midlands must seize on this and turn it into an opportunity to deliver jobs, growth and innovation. We are perfectly placed to deliver the message of our readiness straight to the very heart of Government through the Minister of State for the Department for Business – demonstrating our willingness to lead the UK trade offer at such an important time.”