It is my great pleasure to be at the 389th Cutler’s Feast. It is exactly 30 years since Eddie George made the last Governor’s speech at the Feast. Master, the Company had a 70 year start on the Bank of England. We are a mere youngster. From your founding in 1624, the company was the regulator of the cutlery trades in Hallamshire. The growth of the trade led to disputes over flouting of the company’s rules, including going into partnership with foreigners. Was this people outside Yorkshire? Senior Warden, you talked about the need for economic growth. I am going to join you on that subject. The title of my speech this ... (full story)