The All-Party Parliamentary Group
for the Southeast and
Gatwick Diamond Growth Gateway
Building consensus, driving investment, and growth for the benefit of communities throughout the region.
A Strong Political Voice
for our Region
This APPG serves as the primary cross-party platform dedicated to the economic and social vitality of the South East and Gatwick Diamond.
Champion the Region
To promote the Southeast as a world-class destination to live, work, study, and invest.
Drive Solutions
To foster collaboration between politicians, universities, and businesses to secure joined-up, long-term solutions for transport and sustainable development.
Advocate for Needs
To provide a unified voice addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing our residents, students, and industries.
Influential, Cross-Party Leadership
The APPG is supported by a powerful coalition of MPs and Peers across the political divide, representing the full economic corridor from London to the Coast.
Co-Chairs
Mims Davies MP
East Grinstead & Uckfield
“The Southeast is home to world-leading businesses and incredible talent. This APPG gives us the platform we need to secure the investment, infrastructure and skills that will unlock even greater opportunity right across our communities.”
Natasha Irons MP
Croydon East
“This region contributes so much to the country, yet often doesn’t get the voice it deserves. I’m excited to bring together partners from across the political divide to drive fair, sustainable growth and ensure every part of the Southeast can thrive.”
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Southeast and Gatwick Diamond Growth Gateway
Josh Babarinde MP
Eastbourne
Lord Barwell
Lord Bassam
Jess Brown-Fuller MP
Chichester
Beccy Cooper MP
Worthing West
Claire Coutinho MP
East Surrey
Bobby Dean MP
Carshalton & Wallington
Lord Dholakia
Helena Dollimore MP
Hastings & Rye
Nusrat Ghani MP
Sussex Weald
Alison Griffiths MP
Bognor Regis & Littlehampton
Peter Lamb MP
Crawley
James MacCleary MP
Lewes
John Milne MP
Horsham
Rachel Paul MP
Reigate
Chris Philp MP
Croydon South
Tom Rutland MP
Worthing East & Shoreham
Tom Tugendhat MP
Tonbridge
Why Partner with the APPG?
As a founding partner, you will be recognised as a key driver of the region’s ambitions, helping us go further and faster. Support ensures the APPG maintains a fully-functioning, professional Secretariat to drive this agenda.
Strategic ROI for Partners
Direct Strategic Access
Gain exclusive opportunities to engage with MPs, Peers, and industry leaders who are shaping the regional economy.
Shape Regional Policy
Move beyond observation to action. Help set the priorities for the APPG and inform the legislative agenda.
Thought Leadership
Showcase your organisation’s work and propose solutions to accelerate progress through speaking opportunities at relevant meetings.
High-Level Visibility
Contribute to high-quality APPG reports and policy papers shared directly with Parliamentarians and Government officials.
Driving the Agenda: Key Dates
The APPG will host a series of targeted events, roundtables, and visits designed to build consensus and drive investment.
February 2026: Launch Reception
Theme: Celebrating the Region. A high-profile networking reception to kick off the parliamentary year.
February 2026: Infrastructure Breakfast
Theme: Unlocking Integrated Transport. A deep dive into connectivity solutions for the Gatwick Diamond.
Spring 2026: The Integrated Transport Roundtable
Spring 2026: Future Workforce Roundtable
Theme: Meeting the Skills Gap. Addressing the talent needs of regional businesses with university and industry leaders.
Spring 2026: The Visitor Economy
Theme: Tourism Roundtable. Strategies to boost the region's profile as a destination.
May 2026: National Investment Stage
Theme: Showcasing the region at UKREiF. Putting the Southeast on the map at the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum.
May 2026: Political Summit
Theme: Mayors and MPs Roundtable. aligned strategic planning across local and national government.
Autumn 2026: Party Conference Programme
Theme: Fringe meetings and receptions ensuring the region's voice is heard at all major party conferences.
Regional Economic Snapshot
£24 Billion Regional GVA
The Gatwick Diamond’s total gross value added (GVA) was £24bn. That's roughly 10% of all GVA generated in the wider Southeast England region.
High Productivity
Output per worker in Gatwick Diamond is £63,500, that's around 16% above the national average, demonstrating strong economic efficiency.
Strong Sector Mix
73% of jobs are in services (knowledge services, logistics, transport, business services), with manufacturing accounting for under 5%.
London Gatwick: Economic Engine
In 2023, Gatwick Airport supported 76,560 jobs across the UK and generated £5.5 billion in GVA through direct, indirect, induced, and catalytic impact.
Gateway for Trade & Investment
As a major international airport with proximity to ports and key transport corridors, the region is pivotal for connectivity, exports, tourism, and global investment.
Now Play Your Part
Join the Conversation
To discuss partnership opportunities and secure your involvement in the 2026 programme, please contact the Secretariat.
Silverstone Communications
Phone: 0203 196 6587