Leading Yes and No campaigners in referendum tussle, Mandelson and Lawson will argue their case at showpiece event
Two heavy hitters in the EU referendum debate will take opposing corners of the ring at the IoD’s Annual Convention, at the Royal Albert Hall on 6 October, for a debate on Britain’s EU membership.
Now president of leading international think tank Policy Network and chairman of strategic advisory firm Global Counsel, Lord Mandelson held numerous cabinet positions under prime ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, and was European commissioner for trade between 2004 and 2008.
Lord Lawson was Margaret Thatcher’s chancellor of the exchequer for six years, and has been vocal in his belief that the UK should leave the EU. Expect a tightly fought contest, as the two men discuss the implications of the UK’s EU membership on the country’s business credentials, and its ability to lead on the global stage.
Other notable speakers on the subject of ‘Business Beyond Boundaries’ – this year’s convention theme – will include president of the International Rescue Committee David Miliband, explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, fashion designer and entrepreneur Anya Hindmarch, Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore, NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens, and Google’s European boss, Matt Brittin.
The event takes place from 10am to 5pm, and ticket prices start at £330 (plus VAT) for members.
For more information about the Annual Convention, visit iod.com/annualconvention
Mandelson and Lawson CV
Who Lord Lawson of Blaby
Role Politician
Career highlights Financial secretary, 1979-81; energy secretary, 1981-83; chancellor of the exchequer, 1983-89
Who Lord Mandelson
Roles President of Policy Network, chairman of Global Counsel
Career highlights Trade and industry secretary, 1998; Northern Ireland secretary, 1999-2001; European commissioner for trade, 2004-08; business secretary, 2008-10
No comments