PM Tries To Balance Concerns Of Brexiteers And Businesses in CBI Speech

PM Rishi Sunak has just concluded his keynote speech to the CBI conference in Birmingham.

• Chris Smyth at The Times: "Sunak says a "defining focus of this government" will be innovation, saying it is "about new ideas, new ways of doing things that drive economic and social progress". Sunak argues that focus on innovation rules out following EU rules: "we're absolutely committed to using our new Brexit freedoms to create the most pro innovation regulatory environment in the world in sectors like life sciences, financial services, AI and data".
• Smyth: "Sunak responds to [CBI chief] Danker's call for more immigration by saying "we must be honest with ourselves" that free movement ended "to rebuild public consent in our immigration system". Sunak's wonkish speech on innovation and productivity stats could not be more different to Boris Johnson...You can see why business might like it, but it's not exactly as relatable to the average voter..."
• Aubrey Allegretti at The Guardian: "Sunak tries to pacify jittery Brexiteers after reports of a Swiss-style deal being eyed up by senior government figures. He vows: "The UK will not pursue any relationship with Europe that relies on alignment with EU law."