Wednesday 30 September 2009

Brighton Rocks!

Mike Knapton, our Associate Medical Director, joined our advocacy team Julia, Gillian and Katie in Brighton this week at the annual Labour party conference.

A late night at the main health hotel reception saw our crack team of lobbyists discuss Dodgeball and our policies on physical activity with MPs including Andy Burnham, Secretary of State for Health.

The next day was just as busy, with Mike and the team meeting Health Minister Ann Keen MP. She expressed a clear commitment to addressing CVD over the next ten years, and invited the BHF to continue to push hard on cardiac rehab.

Julia and Katie also buttonholed Lord Mandelson on cigarette vending machines as he made for the lift after finishing a cup of tea. He knew all about the BHF’s campaign even if he is against a full ban!

The Guardian’s political editor Michael White introduced our fringe meeting with the Stroke Association and Marie Curie Cancer Care by introducing "the 3 top killers and an MP".

Mike had a lively discussion with a supportive audience, stressing the importance of prevention and highlighting BHF Hearty Lives programme.

All in all, a profitable trip to the seaside!

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