Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK has continued the Isle of Man Government’s programme of proactive political engagement by attending this week’s Labour Party Conference in Manchester.

Mr Bell was in the audience on Tuesday for Labour leader Ed Miliband’s keynote speech, and also held informal discussions with members of the shadow cabinet - including Ed Balls MP, Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Liam Byrne MP, Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary - Labour peers and senior policy advisors.

The Chief Minister used this trip to focus on the Isle of Man’s importance to the UK economy, in particular the North West of England. He had productive and practical discussions with Joe Anderson, Mayor of Liverpool, and Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, on strengthening trade links between the Island and the North West region.

Mr Bell said: ‘It is crucial for the Isle of Man to be represented at the autumn conferences, not only to develop our relationships with the UK’s main political parties but also to get a feel for the prevailing mood music in British politics. It was interesting to hear Mr Miliband’s “one-nation” speech and his thoughts on stimulating the economy and creating new employment opportunities for young people.’

He added: ‘The Isle of Man has a very positive story to tell and by attending the party conferences we can continue to target our messages at the right people in the right places. I was also able to strengthen links with political and business communities in the North West and underline the key role the Island plays in supporting the British economy. A prime example is the way the Isle of Man Aerospace Cluster works in collaboration with the North West Aerospace Alliance. At a time when the UK Government is focusing all its efforts on returning growth to the economy, it is crucial that we highlight the positive contribution we can make.

‘Overall, the Isle of Man was very well received at the conference and I am confident that we will continue to build a positive working relationship with the Labour leadership.’