A new all-party Parliamentary Group, formed to address key infrastructure issues such as energy security, flood prevention and transport development, was launched earlier this week. The group, the APPGI, is being chaired by former Construction Minister, Rt Hon Nick Raynsford MP.

Representatives from all parties and both Houses will work together to highlight the importance of infrastructure to the economy and to society at large. Members include Conservative Shadow Transport Minister, Stephen Hammond, chief executive of London First, Baroness Valentine, and former chief executive of the Environment Agency, Baroness Young.

Rt Hon Nick Raynsford MP said: “There has never been a more important time to ensure the maintenance and improvement of our nation’s infrastructure.

“In the current economic climate major infrastructure projects can provide the opportunity for boosting employment today, with the very real prospect of strong returns on investment in the medium and long term.

“I am looking forward to chairing what will be a very active group with a strong programme of events over the coming year.”

The APPGI will conduct a number of speaker meetings in Westminster during 2009, addressed by experts from professional and academic bodies, as well as leading players in the construction and civil engineering industries. There will also be a programme of site visits in London, and throughout the UK.

•Date: 19th Nov 2008• Region: UK •Type: Article •Topic: BC general
Rate this article or make a comment - click here