THE newly formed All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the Great South West met on July 29 to discuss a “united vision” for the south west.

In the meeting, it was revealed that Richard Foord MP for Honiton and Sidmouth has been named as one of the new vice chairs of the APPG.

The newly appointed chair for the APPG, Steve Race MP, led the inaugural meeting welcoming new MPs from across the south west along with announcing Foorde MP as a new vice chair for the group.

The APPG say that its mission is to drive investment, promote the region's industries, and foster sustainable growth to aspire to deliver £45 billion of economic growth by 2035.

Steve Race MP, said: “The South West region is economically diverse and a major contributor to UK PLC.

“From manufacturing to scientific innovation, people across our counties are at the forefront of generating economic prosperity. However, we face unique challenges in transport, resilience, cost of living, and low investment.

“Our job is to advocate for our people, businesses, and institutions so that our region can continue to grow sustainability in prosperity.”

Along with the new incumbent of Richard Foord MP, Rebbeca Smith MP for south west Devon and Lord Teverson were also appointed as Vice Chairs of the APPG.

The meeting was attended by a diverse group of MPs and Lords from all political parties and every part of the Great South West region from Somerset and Devon to Cornwall, Dorset and Bournemouth.

In attendance were Karl Tucker, the Chair of the Great South West and Ahmed Goga, Director of the Great South West.

Karl said: “The reconstitution of the APPG comes at a pivotal time for the Great South West.

“It’s fantastic to see our parliamentarians come together to ensure our great region can deliver for the UK and be a leader in the green and blue economies.”