Carnival UK hosted its first ever parliamentary reception on Tuesday 12 November. The reception was hosted by Paul Ludlow, president Carnival UK and P&O Cruises, and Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, and took place in the House of Commons.
The reception was an opportunity to communicate to our key stakeholders; government, industry and policy-makers, about our regional and national economic impact and sustainability agenda. The event also celebrated the launch of Queen Anne and highlighted the wider benefits of cruising to the UK market.
The reception was attended by local and regional Members of Parliament and MPs who represent the ports we visit around the British Isles.
The speeches from Paul Ludlow, Mike Kane MP (the Minister for Maritime), Mark Dickinson (general secretary of Nautilus International) and Rhett Hatcher (CEO of the UK Chamber of Shipping) focused on the important legacy of our links to the UK, our contribution to the UK economy, and our continuing commitment to sustainability. The reception also previewed an independent economic impact report commissioned by Carnival UK that will be published in early 2025.
Four of our cadets were also present to represent Carnival UK – Serin Nix, Joshua Wibberley, Angus Barrett and Elizabeth Brady. They were acknowledged by the Minister and Nautilus International as being an important part of the future of maritime in the UK.
President of Carnival UK and P&O Cruises Paul Ludlow said:
“It was an honour to host Carnival UK’s first Parliamentary reception on Tuesday and to be able to showcase my pride in the contribution we make to the UK.
“We take great pride in creating memorable holidays for millions of guests each year, by bringing to life two of the most iconic brands from Britain’s seafaring heritage. With a combined 371 years of history between P&O Cruises and Cunard, the reception celebrated our enduring links and our contribution to the UK economy.
“The reception provided an excellent opportunity to engage our key stakeholders and demonstrate our strong links to the UK. It also reflected our continuing commitment to sustainability, responsible tourism and investing in the communities and people we serve. I’d like to thank everyone who supported the event.”