Huntingdonshire Showcase at the House of Commons

Key speakers included Ben Obese-Jecty MP, Al Carns MP (Minister for Armed Forces), Major General Matthew Jones, Charlotte Horobin (CEO, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce), Councillor Sarah Conboy (Executive Leader of HDC), and Michelle Sacks (Chief Executive, HDC).

Set against the backdrop of the Strategic Defence Review, the Defence Industrial Strategy, and the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor, the event showcased Huntingdonshire’s strategic role and demonstrated the district’s collaborative approach to sustainable growth. Executive Leader of HDC, Councillor Sarah Conboy, said: “Today has been an opportunity to show government, the MOD, and prospective investors why Huntingdonshire deserves their attention when making critical decisions about where to locate and expand their operations. We’ve shown the strength of our partnerships, the depth of our local talent, and our shared ambition to deliver prosperity across our communities.”

In his opening remarks, Ben Obese-Jecty MP highlighted the importance of celebrating Huntingdonshire and recognising the opportunities ahead, including the potential to build a thriving defence and innovation eco-system in the district. 

Minister Al Carns emphasised the importance of collaboration and partnership, noting that strong relationships are key to achieving long-term success. He remarked, “your network is your net worth,” adding that cooperation between councils, local leaders, and national partners is crucial.

Major General Matthew Jones reflected on how engagement with HDC had revealed genuine potential for developing a defence cluster in Huntingdonshire, built on shared vision and growing momentum among partners.

The event reinforced Huntingdonshire’s commitment to collaboration and its ambition to drive sustainable economic growth. Building on this momentum, HDC plans further engagement events to strengthen partnerships and continue positioning Huntingdonshire as a leading destination for innovation, defence, and investment.