Leeds can learn from Ireland and Wales, says banking lobby

Leeds can learn lessons from Belfast and Cardiff in how it markets itself to international investors, according to the head of banking lobby group The City UK.
The Conservative Party conference in Manchester.The Conservative Party conference in Manchester.
The Conservative Party conference in Manchester.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Post from the Conservative Party conference in Manchester, Chris Cummings said Leeds has a huge amount to offer but is currently not one of the leading two or three cities in near-shoring financial services.

He singled out the examples of Belfast and Cardiff as good examples of regional centres with strong messages and very clear propositions.

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“They are not trying to attract all types. They have narrowed down into areas they want to focus in,” he said.

Mr Cummings, who was born in Leeds, said Belfast has developed a strong reputation for IT and legal services to support banks.

He added that Cardiff is building its own version of Canary Wharf and has an enterprise zone for financial services.

He said that both cities are notable in offering services to complement the City of London, rather than trying to offer an alternative.

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He told the Yorkshire Post that Leeds can “heed these lessons and tighten its proposition”.

Next month, The City UK will publish research which looks at what international investors find attractive in a place. It plans to launch the report in Leeds.

Mr Cummings said investors want good infrastructure, links with educational establishments and enduring political support.