Matthew Elliott’s Ipswich speech gives insights into political sea changes

One of the UK’s foremost political campaigners, Matthew Elliott, was guest speaker at a dinner hosted by the Ipswich Suffolk Business Club at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall on Thursday 8 March. The event was supported by Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, Greene King and Genesis PR.

Described by the Financial Times as ‘one of the most formidable political strategists in Westminster’ the former Vote Leave Chief Executive offered insight into the causes of major political sea changes, from the abolition of slavery and the corn laws to the creation of the welfare state, privatisation and Brexit.

Currently a Senior Fellow at the Legatum Institute, Matthew also spoke about the growth of populism after which members posed questions on subjects such as the influence of fake news and how political parties can appeal to younger voters.

Matthew Elliott said: “I was delighted to receive such a warm welcome from the Ipswich Suffolk Business Club. Business groups play a hugely important role in the political conversation in our country and it was encouraging to meet such a vibrant, plugged-in and friendly group of entrepreneurs. The role of business leaders in creating jobs and generating our country’s prosperity is too often overlooked, so it was inspiring to meet such a positive and forward-looking group of people. They deserve our thanks for everything they do.”

Luke Morris, Chair of Ipswich Suffolk Business Club, says: “We were delighted to host Matthew Elliott and he gave a fascinating presentation which offered a glimpse into the world of campaigning, including his thoughts on the next general election. We feel privileged to have shared an evening with one of our country’s most important political masterminds.”

Ipswich Suffolk Business Club’s membership is made up of Suffolk’s business owners, leaders and key decision makers from a broad spectrum of industry sectors. They share the common goal of promoting business growth, inward investment and employment in the county.

The Club regularly attracts outstanding speakers, giving members the opportunity to hear from and question exceptional business entrepreneurs and political influencers, including in 2017 the Rt. Hon. Phillip Hammond, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Technology Entrepreneur Mike Lynch OBE and G’s Fresh Chairman, John Shropshire OBE.

For information about Ipswich Suffolk Business Club visit www.isbclub.org.uk.

Pictured: Matthew Elliott (left) with Ipswich Suffolk Business Club Chair, Luke Morris

Photo credit to James Fletcher Photography