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The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has sponsored the Annual Export Luncheon in the UK for the second year running. Billed by the organisers as Europe’s largest export networking luncheon, it took place at The Copthorne Hotel, Effingham Park near Gatwick on November 25.


BBC newsreader Peter Sissons chaired the event, now in its 18th year, and there were over 300 attendees from UK export companies, suppliers and relevant government bodies.


Sissons hosted a pre-lunch session, ‘Question Time’, which was based on the television format. It provided an excellent opportunity for guests to raise questions on all aspects of international trade to the expert panel, testing their knowledge and expertise and receiving solutions to their burning business concerns.


Sitting on the panel were Mark Davies (head of international product, RBS), Ross Walker (financial markets cconomist, RBS) along with specialists from UKTI, the Institute of Export, the Institute of Linguists, Eversheds, HM Revenue & Customs, Hong Kong Trade Development Council, BExA and Atradius. Topics covered ranged from oil prices to emerging technologies to anti-terrorist laws.


Sissons also entertained the audience after lunch with tales and anecdotes from his career as a foreign correspondent, political commentator and BBC newsreader.


In addition, the event supported the charity, Dreams Come True which aims to bring laughter and happiness into the lives of seriously and terminally ill children. The morning kicked off with a Charity Golf Challenge and there was a charity prize draw.


Davies at RBS, commented: “We were delighted to be lead sponsors of the Annual Export Luncheon for the second year running. We understand the importance of supporting UK companies that trade internationally and we offer them tailored solutions that help with all aspects of their overseas business. This sponsorship further strengthens our capabilities and highlights our continued support for international development.”