High Peak MP Robert Largan gave the opening speech at the British Aggregates Association (BAA) annual general meeting. The conference took place at The Palace Hotel in Buxton on Monday 21 June.
During this speech, Robert Largan MP discussed the important role the industry has to play in the recovery from the pandemic:
“Nationally, the aggregates industry generates billions of pounds and employs thousands and thousands of people both directly and indirectly. It is playing an essential role in how we recover and build back from an incredibly difficult last 18 months, including in the delivery of the Government’s vital building and infrastructure agenda. The country needs to build, and I thank you so much for what you are doing.”
Robert Largan MP also spoke on the range of support from the Government to get businesses through the crisis, and help them recover as part of the levelling up agenda.
This includes the £65 billion boost in the spring Budget, the launch of the new UK Infrastructure Bank, and the introduction of a super-deduction for capital investment.
Following the High Peak MP’s speech, a lively question and answer session took place with attendees, many of whom are representatives of major quarrying companies, focusing on the challenges facing the UK aggregates industry.
Robert Largan MP commented:
“The quarries are major local employers and a vital part of High Peak’s economy. They are also a key national strategic industry.
“To build back better from the pandemic and keep its pledge to level up the country, the Government must recognise the UK aggregates industry as an essential partner in the delivery of the infrastructure projects we so badly need.
“They will also have a big role to play in the UK hitting our net carbon zero targets.
“It is so important that businesses are given the tools they need to get the job done. This means investing more in skills and listening to what business leaders have to say about the challenges they are facing.
“I will keep doing all I can to speak up for local businesses and get them the help they need during this time.”
