Top Tories to discuss Brexit at BHA Summit 2016

Culture secretary John Whittingdale and former Conservative Party leader Lord Hague have been announced as the keynote speakers at this year’s event in London.

Taking place on 27 June – just four days after the referendum – it will be the Government’s first platform to discuss the impact of the vote on the UK and the hospitality industry.

Ufi Ibrahim, chief executive of the BHA, said: “If you attend one event this year, it should be the BHA Summit 2016. The timing couldn’t be more critical.

“As the fourth largest industry in the UK, our voice matters, and this will be the moment when the industry comes together to help plan for our future, either in or out of the EU.”

United sector​

This year’s event is themed around ‘being connected’, with discussions focusing on the industry’s need to work together in a changing environment.

Europe is expected to be a hot topic, alongside diversity, the digital economy and employment law.

David Norgrove, chair of the Low Pay Commission will discuss how the National Living Wage and Apprenticeship Levy have affected the hospitality and tourism industry.

The chief executive of Manchester City Council, Sir Howard Bernstein, is to speak about how ‘putting the city before politics’ has enabled Manchester to become a ‘champion of hospitality and tourism’.

Ibrahim added: “Being connected is about forging partnerships within the industry and recognising that working together is better for success than going it alone.

“It is also about meaningful conversations with government and our observers - about engaging with them, being authentic and being accountable.”

To register for this year's summit click here.