SIR VINCE CABLE SAYS WEST BUSINESSES HAVE ‘AGILITY’ TO DEAL WITH CHALLENGES AHEAD

Business leaders in Bristol had the opportunity to share views on the post-Brexit economy with leading economists Sir Vince Cable and James Sproule of the Institute of Directors.

The former Liberal Democrat Minister and Treasury spokesman and the IoD’s chief economist shared the floor at an event staged by the Bristol branch of the Institute of Directors.

Topics discussed and shared with the audience ranged from funding for start-ups through to skills gaps and the growing gig economy.

Bristol branch chair Rebecca Tregarthen said: “It’s not often you get two of the country’s leading economists on the same stage so we were extremely fortunate to be able to host this event.

“Clearly we are moving into another challenging economic period, and one of much uncertainty. It is evident we still have work to do in addressing areas such as skills shortages in key sectors. But there is much to be positive about.

“As Sir Vince commented, ‘Bristol is seen as the most active urban economy outside London. We have a resilient business community in the West, many of whom are small to medium sized enterprises who have the agility to deal with challenge and change.”

The event was hosted by Burges Salmon.