In conversation with Josh Hardie, CBI Deputy Director-General.

25 Nov 2020 | 1 minute read

Foot Anstey was delighted to host the latest CBI Political Briefing – South West with Deputy Director-General, Josh Hardie and South West business leaders. The virtual briefing took place on 18 November 2020.

In conversation

We were very grateful that Josh was also available later in the week for a conversation with Nathan Peacey, looking at some of the main topics from the briefing. Despite the huge challenges that 2020 has brought, it is encouraging to hear from Josh that there are a number of positive and optimistic signs for 2021, not least there being a real opportunity for business to drive a strong, growth-led recovery. Watch the full conversation here:

At the CBI Political Briefing event, Josh Hardie shared his engaging insight on a number of critical topics including the latest state of the Brexit negotiations, the government's post-pandemic economic recovery plans and its building back better agenda. All of this set against a backdrop of hopeful news on Covid-19 vaccines, the result of the US election and newly announced net-zero carbon policies. You can find out more on Josh's thoughts on each topic below:

Brexit

Does government really understand the importance of getting a deal?

Covid-19

How will the UK end up paying for the support schemes required due to the pandemic?

The national investment strategy

A chance for joined-up thinking?

The South West

Devolution in the South West

Collaboration

Improving public and private sector collaboration

The CBI's latest research report, Reviving Regions, was showcased at the Political Briefing event. It sets out what actions are needed to ensure regions can quickly bounce back from the impact of Covid-19 and Brexit, and address the longstanding gaps in productivity and inequality across England. The Briefing also included the opportunity for business leaders to participate in a wide-ranging Q&A session with Josh, followed by several break-out sessions to address key concerns within the business community.