Peel boss joins Cameron’s China trade mission
THE boss of The Peel Group is joining Prime Minister David Cameron and Business Secretary Vince Cable on a major trade mission to China this week.
John Whittaker – who trying to woo Chinese investment for his company’s huge Merseyside regeneration schemes. Peel Waters, has made several trips to China in the last 12 months, but this week’s visit will be the most high profile.
In a statement the Peel said: “The group has long recognised the strategic advantage of developing strong business links with China – to ensure the UK is seen as a place where business can be done.
“We see the establishment of mutually beneficial relationships, whether in international trade, low carbon energy, or major economic and social regeneration projects, as key to progressing and maximising the vast opportunities that exist in partnering with Chinese businesses.”
As well as the Prime Minister, Chancellor George Osborne, Business Secretary Vince Cable, Energy Secretary Chris Huhne and Education Secretary Michael Gove.
Mr Cameron described the trip as ‘vitally important’, adding: “Our message is simple: Britain is now open for business, has a very business-friendly government, and wants to have a much, much stronger relationship with China.
“I’m delighted we’ve got such a wide range of institutions and businesses coming with us. This visit will mark another step to making Britain the successful, open, trading and pro-business country that I want it to be.”
Vince Cable said: “Domestic consumption in China is growing, the middle class is expanding, and Chinese companies are looking to internationalise. This brings a huge increase in opportunities for UK firms given that they are globally competitive in services, advanced manufacturing and engineering, ICT, life sciences and creative industries – all areas where Chinese demand is growing significantly.
“Like in any market it pays to do your research, and UK Trade & Investment, which has a network throughout China, can help companies find the opportunities that will help their businesses grow.”
The three days of trade talks will begin today Joint Economic Trade Commission talks on Monday led by Dr Cable and Chinese Minister for Commerce Chen Deming.
Tomorrow there will be the Economic and Financial Dialogue and a UK-China summit.
On Wednesday, there will be a Business Summit, and on Thursday Dr. Cable will meet regional mayors to look at expanding ties throughout China.
UK goods exports to China rose 44% in the first eight months of 2010, to £4.5bn.
Last week, Airbus announced the sale to China of over one hundred planes, a deal which will be worth in excess of $5 billion to the UK economy.
