The Rt. Hon. Ann Widdecombe MEP and member of the Brexit Party spoke to over 100 Suffolk business leaders at a special event organised by the Ipswich Suffolk Business Club on 31 October – the date the UK was originally expected to leave the EU.
The evening was hosted and sponsored by Milsoms Kesgrave Hall along with pub retailer and brewer Greene King and PR and marketing specialists Genesis.
In her speech, Ann Widdecombe gave an energetic, insightful talk on her views on Brexit, her predictions for the upcoming general election and what it means for Suffolk business.
She also recalled some humorous life lessons in her life and career, including surviving to week 10 of Strictly Come Dancing with partner Anton du Beke, and answered questions from members and their guests.
Ann explained why she changed her mind about retiring, saying: “I was enjoying my retirement, but duty didn’t call, duty howled at me because I was frustrated, as with many others in this country, with the current situation in parliament.”
She added: “Thank you for all you do for the UK economy. Once a clean-break Brexit happens, grab the new future with both hands after we’ve left. It’s a terrific future, if we leave in a meaningful sense. When we can trade globally, we will be able to set our own rules and do everything as an independent country for the first time in decades.”
Luke Morris, Chairman of the Ipswich Suffolk Business Club, said: “With an election just being announced, it was fascinating to hear her views on Brexit, on the sanctity of democracy, and on the role of Parliament. Ann was incredibly generous with her time with Members and gave one of the liveliest speeches at such a crucial – and unprecedented – time for the country. The Club has once again proven its knack of attracting a top-drawer speaker, at the very centre of current affairs and at the most crucial of times, to Suffolk.”
Ipswich Suffolk Business Club membership is made up of local business owners, leaders and decision makers who share the Club’s vision to promote business growth and enhance Suffolk’s business reputation in the UK.
The Club attracts high quality speakers, giving members the opportunity to hear from and question exceptional business entrepreneurs and political influencers.
