Building post-Brexit Britain: David Jones meets infrastructure experts
Leaders from the world of infrastructure met to find out how the Government is laying the foundations for successful Brexit negotiations.
Minister David Jones chaired a meeting with the Minister for Industry and Energy, Jesse Norman and infrastructure leaders at the Institution for Civil Engineers to discuss the opportunities presented by the UK leaving the EU.
The meeting was the latest in a line of roundtable discussions, as Ministers from the Department for Exiting the EU (DExEU) travel across the country to find out how the UK’s exit will affect different sectors.
The discussion follows a Government announcement of a new National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline, which commits over £500 billion worth of private and public investment to nationwide infrastructure projects over this Parliament and beyond.
DExEU Minister, David Jones said:
Britain is a world leader in infrastructure design, delivery and operation and we are determined to see this position protected and enhanced as we leave the EU.
The discussion today provided me with useful insights on the priorities for this industry as we approach negotiations and I look forward to working with them in the future.
Minister for Industry and Energy, Jesse Norman said:
Infrastructure projects are vital to the long term success of our economy and I was pleased to hear directly from industry today on their priorities going forward.
It is important that we work closely with industry on developing a comprehensive industrial strategy in order to stimulate productivity and produce the high skilled jobs needed to grow our economy.
The Chief Executive of the Construction Products Association, Diana Montgomery said:
The construction products manufacturing and distribution sector, comprising more than a third of total UK construction turnover, is keen to continue partnering with Government and maintaining stability and economic growth for the long-term.
We appreciate the Government’s ambition to consult with industry and allow us to convey our views, concerns and solutions to the challenges ahead. Today’s meeting has been both positive and productive.
Senior representatives from the following businesses attended the meeting:
- Arcadis
- Balfour Beatty
- Build UK
- Construction Products Association
- Crossrail
- Institution for Civil Engineers
- Royal Institution for Chartered Surveyors
- Royal Institute of British Architects
- Skanska UK
- Tarmac
- Vinci Construction
By listening to their concerns and discussing opportunities, the Government is seeking to limit uncertainty in the transition and ensure a new relationship with the EU which works for businesses and Britain.