MP visits Tarmac to celebrate 30 year anniversary
It was a special day for Holme Hall quarry and Grimsby concrete plant on Friday (14 September) when they were paid a visit by Austin Mitchell, MP for Great Grimsby. The day marked the 30 year anniversary of his Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) fellowship with Tarmac.
Tarmac was one of the founding members of the Industry and Parliament Trust, established to build bridges between legislators and the business community. Mr Mitchell, who entered parliament in 1977, was one of the first MPs to undertake an IPT fellowship which he completed with Tarmac in 1982.
Paul Seamer, area operations director, was personal chaperone and chauffeur to the MP on the day. "He was very personable and we were able to have quite a frank conversation," said Paul. "We engaged about government policy regarding road and house building, and it was pleasing to hear him talk so positively in terms of communicating our views from the industry."
Mr Mitchell's first point of call was Holme Hall quarry, which, Paul says, he was very impressed with. He was then taken to Grimsby where he was shown how the concrete plant operates. He was very grateful for the opportunity to learn more about Tarmac and was happy to renew his contact with us.
"My fellowship with Tarmac was of immense benefit and being new to parliament was a necessary part of my education," said Mr Mitchell. "I have really enjoyed visiting Tarmac again to gain real insight into the business and its importance to the local community."
The importance of engaging with MPs, and those that vote on both local and national issues, was reiterated by Leon Cook, public affairs officer: "The fellowship programme provides elected members with an opportunity to acquire a greater understanding of commerce and industry through direct experience. It allows us to directly inform them about our operations and issues and pieces of legislation that may impact on the company and industry."
About The Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT)
The Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) is a registered charity dedicated to fostering better mutual understanding between the worlds of Parliament and Industry. It operates as an independent, non-partisan, non-lobbying, not-for-profit organisation that facilitates educational exchange Fellowships for MPs, MEPs, Peers and senior staff of both Houses with a range of participating companies from most sectors of business and industry.
To find out more go to: www.ipt.org.uk
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