Vince Cable, the leader of the Liberal Democrats and MP for Twickenham, is the first headline speaker to be confirmed for the BMF’s Members’ Day in September, which takes the theme of “The Future Belongs to the Bold”.
A former chief economist at Shell, Vince is said to have been the first UK politician to warn of the impending financial crisis of 2008. He now believes that a hard Brexit could create serious and prolonged economic difficulties ahead.
As leader of the Liberal Democrats, his top priorities are fighting to make sure the UK remains at the heart of the EU, building an economy that works for everyone, investing in high-quality public services and a decent welfare system, and building a mass movement that can win elections and make our country more liberal and more democratic.
Between 2010 and 2015, as the coalition government’s secretary of state for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince created a distinctive Liberal Democrat vision for the economy. He implemented a long-term industrial strategy, promotion of science and innovation, banking reform, the creation of the world’s first-ever Green Investment Bank, support for young people through apprenticeships and the promotion of socially responsible capitalism.
John Newcomb, chief executive of the BMF, said: “We are delighted that Sir Vince Cable will address BMF Members’ Day this year. He is not only one of the country’s senior politicians, but also a highly regarded economist who is not afraid to express bold and sometimes contrarian views. This sits well with our Members’ Day theme, and I know that everyone will be keen to hear from him.”
BMF Members’ Day will be held for the first time at St George’s Park, Burton on Trent. The business conference and the BMF’s black-tie awards dinner, which celebrates the achievements of young people working in the industry, both events take place on September 27. The BMF’s annual golf tournament and other social activities will be held the day before on September 26.
