The former secretary of state for defence spoke about his views on politics when he gave a presentation to about 80 members of Ely Cathedral Business Group.

John Hutton, now Lord Hutton of Furness, spoke about global security and the state of politics nationally and internationally during the event at the cathedral.

A discussion followed, covering NATO, cyber security, the growth of nationalism, Brexit and Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour Party.

The group was established to get local business people together and get them thinking and talking about things that matter.

A spokesman said: “Business activity is a vital component of a balanced and flourishing human society.

“We rely on successful businesses for the production of all the goods and services on which our communities depend.

“Business creates the wealth which, through taxation funds our public services, which enables charities to operate, drives research and development of new technologies, funds the arts - the list goes on.”

The aim is to get thinking, identify common issues, be part of the debate, share experiences and help your business by helping others.

Meetings are on fourth Mondays. The next is on Monday October 24 at 6.30pm at The Royal Standard pub, Ely

ECBG events are free and open to all.