Labour MP to discuss support for businesses

Shadow Economic Secretary Pat McFadden is to take part in a Chamber webinar assessing how the business community will be supported as it emerges from the pandemic.

As an apolitical organisation, the Chamber is meeting with politicians from across the spectrum to understand how they intend to support businesses in a post-Covid world.

This event on 29 April is sponsored by Barclays and will be chaired by Chamber CEO Henrietta Brealey.

Mr McFadden (pictured) is a Labour MP for Wolverhampton and was a prominent member of the last Labour Government under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.

Raj Kandola, head of policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “We are delighted to be joined by Pat to find out more about the Labour Party 's response to Covid-19 and Brexit and the plans it has in place to kick start the economy.

“Pat will also be on hand to answer questions on the Labour Party 's wider policy agenda for the regional business community and on its priorities for the financial services sector.

“As a prominent member of the last Labour Government, Pat served both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown with distinction and I 'm sure he will share fascinating insight on the lessons that can be learnt from the 2008 crash as we look to rebuild beyond the pandemic. ”

Kurt Pollard, area business manager for Barclays, will also be joining Pat for the webinar.

He said: “During 2020, businesses had to adapt to the dynamic and challenging economic environment.

“We saw a real focus on survival as companies looked towards crisis management strategies, but as we have moved through the pandemic we also observed some positives, and even new opportunities which have tested both the dexterity and agility of business management teams.

“These have included finding new markets, pivoting the business to continue to trade within lockdown restrictions or identifying new customer and expanding previously non-core distribution channels.

“Many business have achieved this successfully and this presents a real opportunity for economic growth as we progress through the coming months and next few years. ”

Click here for more information and to book on to the event.