Members of the public and the business community are invited to attend a seminar in Southend to explore the impact of the credit crunch and consider the economic and social implications.

Despite the efforts of the Government and the Bank of England to shore up the financial system, the prospects for the economy in 2009 appear grim. House prices are falling, unemployment rising and consumer confidence is at an all-time low. This seminar aims to lay bare some of the myths, focus on the reality for the local and national economy and beyond, and consider the principal economic and social implications.

Organised by the University of Essex in association with the Essex Chambers of Commerce, the seminar, entitled The Credit Crunch: Myths, Reality and Implications takes place at the University’s Southend Campus in Elmer Approach on Tuesday 31 March from 11.45am to 2pm. The seminar is free and includes lunch, but places are limited so participants must reserve a place.

Leading academic experts from the fields of economics, accounting and human rights will be joined by the Chief Executive of the Essex Chambers of Commerce to discuss the causes of the crisis, possible remedies, human rights implications and the protective measures local businesses can take.

Professor Jay Mitra, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Research, University of Essex Business School, who will chair the event, said: ‘The effects of the financial crisis are being felt at a personal, local, national and global level. This seminar will lay bare some of the myths and consider some of the possible remedies from both the local and global perspective.’

To reserve a place, please contact the Research and Enterprise Office at the University on 01206 872925, or e-mail: rbdoevents@essex.ac.uk by Wednesday 25 March 2009.

ends

Notes to Editors

Speakers at the seminar are:

Economist Professor Sheri Markose
Accounting and corporate governance expert Professor Prem Sikka
Director of the University of Essex Human Rights Centre Professor John Packer
Chief Executive of the Essex Chambers of Commerce John Clayton
Entrepreneurship, innovation and economic development expert Professor Jay Mitra.

Journalists/photographers are invited to attend. For further information, or to arrange interviews or attendance, please contact Jenny Grinter in the University Communications Office on 01206 872400, e-mail: comms@essex.ac.uk.