Vernon Coaker MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Defence
British defence planning is beset with the issues of defining the threats the country faces, and procuring the equipment and skilled manpower needed, within severe budgetary constraints. The 21st century has seen the significant emergence of terrorism and cyber threats at the same time as the armed forces have had to cope with a number of limited but costly operations for which some of their equipment was not designed. The defence planning landscape features the US 'pivot to Asia', instability in the middle east, increased Russian focus on strengthening its military capabilities, and the continuing rapid pace of technological change. Vernon Coaker was appointed Shadow Secretary of State for Defence in October 2013. This is the first opportunity for Industry Forum members to hear and discuss his views and policy ideas.
Sponsor: BAE Systems
About the Industry Forum
The Industry Forum promotes constructive dialogue between public policy makers, industry operating in the UK, and leading commentators. It has operated for nearly 20 years and has established good relations with the main political parties and the parliamentary select committees.
Focusing on current key issues, it provides opportunities for policy makers to explain policies and objectives face-to-face with businesses that can give practical and unfiltered feedback. The aim is that this process should lead to economic and social benefits by improving public policy related to business.
The core membership programme focuses on a range of key current or strategic issues and features some 20-plus meetings per year on topics chosen by members. Our events are informal and interactive, and adhere to the Chatham House rule. The majority are held in Central London sponsored and hosted by members. Attendance is by invitation-only to members and guests. Attendees are predominantly business professionals who bring their own current and practical views and information
The Industry Forum is set up as an independent not -for-profit company unaligned to any political party or interest. It is registered under the Companies Act and operating in accordance with the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.