Milton Keynes South MP Iain Stewart pictured will take on the role of standard bearer for what the government sees as an important economic area to the UK’s future.
His role will be to work with partner and other interested parties to help the corridor to fulfil its potential.
As part of the Budget, Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond set out an ambitious locally-led development programme for the area covering infrastructure, housing and business investment.
This includes a housing deal with Oxfordshire for 100,000 homes by 2031 and investment in transport infrastructure.
Mr Javid said: “We know that this corridor has the potential to transform into globally significant economy. We must grasp this once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock growth.
“We have a bold vision for the region and want to attract the brightest and the best. The appointment of Iain Stewart as a dedicated champion will help us work in partnership with communities and secure the corridor’s position as a world class economic area and a key driver of UK prosperity.”
As part of the role Mr Stewart will:
- Champion a vision for the corridor with stakeholders including local authorities, local councillors and MPs on a cross-party basis, local enterprise partnerships and local businesses;
- Gather intelligence on local issues and update government to help deliver this vision in a way that is locally informed;
- Attend events and meetings, along with local stakeholders and ministers as appropriate, to promote the corridor, for example to promote trade and investment;
- Carry out media engagements to promote the corridor.
Mr Stewart said: “As someone who has lived and worked in the region for many years, I am delighted to be given the opportunity to champion the government’s vision for the corridor.
“It is vital that government and communities work hand in hand to deliver economic growth, and I look forward to bringing together stakeholders and working to transform the corridor into the UK’s answer to Silicon Valley.”
