Rt Hon Lord (Norman) Lamont

Norman Lamont was Chancellor of the Exchequer during the last recession, presiding over the withdrawal of sterling from the Exchange Rate Mechanism and what quickly became known as Black Wednesday. He has since been described by the economist Sir Alan Walters as "not only the most effective, but also the bravest Chancellor since the war."

Originally an investment banker with NM Rothschild, Lamont spent twenty five years in the Commons, serving in the Cabinet under both Margaret Thatcher and John Major. As Chancellor, he appointed the 26 year-old David Cameron as his special advisor.

In his speech Lamont charts the course of recession, looking at the likely prospects and sources of recovery over the coming years . He foresees banks returning to full independence within a relatively short time frame, and argues against any temptation for the UK to sign up to the Euro. He is also very comfortable speaking after dinner, lacing the speech with a stream of anecdotes.

Since leaving the Commons Lord Lamont has held directorships with RAB Capital, Balli and Phorm. He is Chairman of the British Romanian and British Iranian Chambers of Commerce.

JLA Client Comments

'It would be hard to think of a more relevant speaker for the current time.' Ernst and Young