The Institution of Civil Engineers continues its programme of engagement at the Liberal Democrat, Labour and Conservative party conferences with three evening receptions.
The events are hosted by the All Party Parliamentary Group for Infrastructure (APPGI) with ICE providing support jointly with the Association for Consultancy and Engineering, the Construction Products Association, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association and ConstructionSkills.
The importance of infrastructure
These occasions bring together Members of Parliament, business and industry leaders, policy experts, conference delegates and fellow professionals to discuss the importance of infrastructure in stimulating economic growth and achieving a low carbon society. ICE was represented by members of the Presidential team and the local ICE region.
19 September - Liberal Democrat reception
At the Liberal Democrat reception, the host John Hemming MP commended the organisations involved for coming together "to promote a common policy and speak with one voice". Drawing on the importance of infrastructure in delivering a low-carbon economy for the future, he called for "new and upgraded infrastructure" across a number of sectors, including energy generation and transport.
Julian Huppert MP, Chair of the Liberal Democrat parliamentary transport committee, also highlighted the importance of infrastructure to the economy. In order to really invest in the sector he called for a greater emphasis on vocational skills, particularly apprenticeships.
26 September – Labour reception
The ‘Infrastructure for Growth’ receptions continued at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool last week. At the event, Ian Lucas, shadow minister for construction, said 'It is now crucial that when government invests it gets the full value of every pound. If we invest in infrastructure well the prize is an economy fit for the future'.
3 October – the Conservative reception
At the Conservative reception tonight (3 October 2011), Manchester Mark Garnier MP and Esther McVey MP will be representing the Conservative Party’s approach to the infrastructure and growth agenda.
For further information about the All Party Parliamentary Group on Infrastructure you can visit: www.infrastructuregroup.org.uk