Originally published on the PHTA website at:
The PHTA proudly stood alongside political, business, and community leaders to mark the official launch of the West Midlands All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) at the University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston Park Hotel.
Cross-section of experience
The evening brought together a cross-section of figures who are passionate about championing the region. From Parliamentarians and councillors to industry leaders and academics.
The APPG, which will now begin shaping its agenda in Westminster, welcomed key regional figures including the Mayor of the West Midlands Combined Authority, Richard Parker and his team. Among the attending MPs were: Preet Kaur Gill, Shaun Davies, Leigh Ingham, Chris Bloore and Alistair Carns, joined by David Robertson and senior councillors such as John Cotton, Timothy Huxtable, George Duggins, John Gallagher, Adrian Andrews, Matthew Dormer and Klara Margetts.
PHTA’s Chief Executive, Professor Gino Martini, attended the event as a member of the APPG’s Advisory Board, adding the PHTA’s voice to a coalition that also includes Cadent Gas, HS2, Harper Adams University and others.
More than just a formal launch
The evening served as more than just a formal launch. It was a reminder of the region’s well of expertise and its potential to shape national conversations, from health innovation and skills development to infrastructure and economic growth.
As the APPG begins its work, the region looks forward to playing its part in pushing for real, tangible outcomes. Whether it’s raising the profile of life sciences or advocating for investment in regional talent.
In his speech, Gino Martini said: “To me, PHTA and BHIC truly typifies the spirit of the West Midlands. It’s about collaboration, ambition, and coming together.
“So I think it’s time to think big – we need to invest in our people, our places, our platforms. We need to support local businesses, particularly cross-sector, and we really need to focus
on making the West Midlands seen as a region that’s ready to deliver. Together we can achieve a lot more.”
A series of interesting addresses
The evening also featured a series of addresses from key figures in regional and national politics. Shaun Davies MP, Mayor Richard Parker, Preet Kaur Gill MP and Leigh Ingham MP each took to the stage with a clear and powerful message.
Their speeches revealed a shared determination to place the West Midlands firmly on the national agenda. With conviction and clarity, they reinforced the mission of the APPG: to amplify the region’s voice, champion its strengths and to spotlight the untapped potential that exists across our towns, cities and communities.
Not merely a moment of reflection
It was a moment not just of reflection, but of momentum, an evening that made clear the West Midlands is ready to lead, innovate and be heard.
The PHTA is a founding sponsor of Life Sciences Week.
