Derby stars in new Midlands UK Forum for Growth video

The first meeting of the Midlands Engine All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for 2021 was held this week, including a new film which featured John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby outlining investor interest to date.

The Midlands Engine APPG is a collaboration of the region’s MPs and Peers, working together to raise the profile of the Midlands, its projects and priorities in Parliament. Membership includes Pauline Latham, MP for Mid-Derbyshire.

At the meeting, Secreatry of State, Robert Jenrick, who is also Midlands Engine Champion, urged MPs and Peers to continue their strong support for the region.

Midlands Engine chairman Sir John Peace also addressed the meeting on the subject of the Midlands UK Forum for Growth.

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Sir John highlighted the exceptional investment opportunities showcased at the event, which totalled £17.6 billion.

The event was attended by more than 400 delegates and investors, both domestic and international, from as far afield as Japan, Kuwait, China, India and the UAE.

Both the city and county were represented at the three-day event, hosted by the Midlands Engine, which took place entirely online in November.

In front of an audience of stakeholders and investors, Derby and Derbyshire showcased £2 billion of investment opportunities.

Speaking on the prospect of future events, Sir John said: “The first Midlands UK Forum for Growth was a huge success and we are exploring ways, in conjunction with colleagues in government, as to how we can continue our work in the field of international trade over the coming months.”