PM meets business leaders at Chamber event

A gathering of North East business leaders in Newcastle has given employers the chance to share their growth ambitions directly with the Prime Minister.

Keir Starmer attended a reception hosted by the North East Chamber of Commerce at its Stamp Exchange offices last Wednesday (February 25), meeting around 30 business leaders from across the region.

Representatives from advanced manufacturing, energy, professional services, culture, health, digital education and the third sector gathered for the informal session, which offered an opportunity for direct discussion about the challenges and opportunities facing the regional economy.

The event enabled employers to share insights on investment, job creation and long-term growth ambitions in the North East, highlighting both the region’s potential and the barriers businesses continue to navigate.

The Prime Minister said: “Businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and nowhere is that truer than in the North East. 

“I’ve stood here before and told business leaders that listening and working in partnership would be central to how I lead. 

“Tonight shows this Government delivering on our promise, as we work together to boost growth and make a real difference to the lives of hardworking families across the country.” 

The visit comes as the Chamber continues to promote its Unlocking the North East Economy policy plan, a business-led strategy setting out priorities designed to boost productivity, attract investment and create opportunity across the region.

By facilitating dialogue between Government and employers, the Chamber aims to ensure that the voice of North East businesses remain central to policy decisions shaping the area’s economic future.

John McCabe, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, added: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Prime Minister back to the North East Chamber and to facilitate direct conversations with businesses from across our region. 

“The North East has a strong track record of innovation, exporting and industrial leadership. 

“Our members value the opportunity to speak candidly about what they need to grow, whether that is long-term policy stability, investment in skills, improved connectivity or support for key sectors such as clean energy and advanced manufacturing. 

“Honest and constructive dialogue between Government and business is essential if we are to unlock the full potential of the North East economy, and we are pleased to have hosted this important conversation.” 

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