On 28 June 2017, HFW hosted a joint event with Grant Thornton on Brexit in Tokyo.
The Right Honorable Jack Straw delivered a keynote speech focusing on the current political situation noting how “the composition of the new Parliament is likely to mean that Brexit will be less disruptive for industry and investment” and that “the chances of there being a second referendum are slim, but could not be ruled out altogether.”
HFW Partner Brian Perrott delivered an engaging opening speech as well as a presentation on international trade around Brexit. HFW Partners Peter Coles and Anthony Woolich also gave thought provoking presentations addressing the key issues for the Aviation and Competition and Regulatory sectors. GT’s Pete Dawson addressed the economic factors to consider, noting that it is a great time for International countries to invest in the UK.
A panel session closed the day, in which Mr Kodaira, Economic Journalist of Nikkei and HFW Partner Andrew M Johnstone joined the other speakers to engage in some lively discussion and questions from clients around whether Article 50 could be revoked and whether Brexit will impact English arbitration.