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Former minister talks business during Warrington visit

A high-profile MP discussed youth training, transport links and bank lending during a round-table event with Warrington business leaders.

Former Labour cabinet minister Dame Tessa Jowell spoke to representatives of three thriving companies at Warrington Town Hall.

Derek Kelly, managing director of Centre Park-based professional services group Optionis, used the event to make the case for improvements to the town’s road network.

Redline Recruitment owner Tom Farrell, meanwhile, expressed concerns over access to finance for SMEs. Andrew Hutchinson of Stockton Heath-based design and marketing company, Diagram Design, joined in calls for young people to receive more preparation for the world of work.

The issue of youth training and education dominated the discussion, with all parties agreeing that businesses and schools must work together more closely in order to ensure future generations can “hit the ground running” when starting their career.

Speaking afterwards, Derek Kelly welcomed the chance to discuss topical business issues with Dame Tessa.

He said: “It’s not every day you get to voice your concerns directly to a former minister. As the MD of a fast-growing and ambitious business, it was a good opportunity and an interesting discussion.”

Also in attendance were Warrington Borough Council leader Cllr Terry O’Neill, Warrington & Co managing director Steve Park and Warrington South Labour parliamentary candidate Nick Bent.

Dame Tessa, who will next year stand down from the Dulwich and West Norwood seat she has held since 1997, described the informal round-table discussion as “fantastically rich.”

She praised Warrington’s credentials as a location for start-ups and SMEs, applauding its willingness to “shout louder” in order to rival Manchester and Liverpool as the North West’s premier business location.

Cllr O’Neill said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Dame Tessa to Warrington. The round-table discussion was useful and informative for all parties, and is just one example of our efforts to support the town’s vital and thriving business community.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .