Just a very personal thank you from me, Mike, for promoting the brilliant automotive sector, and also everything else that you’ve done in your time as Chief Executive, both here and abroad.

It’s also a big personal thanks to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders for making tonight happen in the first place.

I know you enjoyed a warm relationship with my predecessor, Jonny.

He got off the ground and implemented the Industrial Strategy which will benefit your sector for a decade ahead, and that is quite an achievement.

I’m really glad that he’s here tonight and I am extremely grateful for the friendship that he has shown me and to the Society.

I’m very keen to continue Jonny’s work under my tenure.

It’s always been a car mad, a family that I grew up in.

And for those of you w

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