As the UK looks to its post-Brexit future, two of our biggest cities will increasingly be vying for Ministerial and policy makers’ attention; London and Manchester.

As a global capital of finance and services, London is counting on our political elite to ensure it retains access to EU markets and its businesses aren’t disadvantaged in future trade deals. Manchester, devolution darlings of the Treasury, have found renewed confidence in recent years, with a booming cultural life and aggressive fiscal devolution, the city region has become a policy petri dish. The question for our political leaders is; what should be the priority? Safeguarding London’s position as a global financial services powerhouse, or stoking the fires of the Northern powerhouse and seeding new industries.

Speakers

Paul Scully, MP for Sutton and Cheam

Jane Dudman, Editor of Guardian Public Leaders and Guardian Housing

Cllr Sean Anstee, Leader of Trafford Council

Geoff Tily, Senior Economist, British Trade Union Congress

Ruth Duston, Chief Executive of Victoria Business Improvement District

This fringe event at the Conservative Party Conference will start at 1pm at Jurys Inn Birmingham (245 Broad Street, B1 2HQ) - outside of the secure zone and a one minute walk from the convention centre.