Responding, EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation said it was now essential the Group played a key role in evaluating the performance so far of the previous strategy and where policy should now focus.
Commenting, EEF Director General, Martin Temple, said:
“This is welcome recognition by government of the key role manufacturing has to play in a high value modern economy. It is essential that the Group keeps government focused on delivering the right competitive environment in which companies can continue to flourish.”
EEF also welcomed the focus on how manufacturers can take advantage of green technologies and climate change, but cautioned that other key issues must not become subsumed to this agenda alone. EEF will shortly publish a joint report with Deloitte on opportunities provided to manufacturers by a Low Carbon Economy.
“Green technologies and climate change will provide undoubted opportunities for manufacturers. However, this is not the only game in town and must be seen in the context of a wider strategy for manufacturing to succeed. In particular, an emphasis on green issues must not be at the expense of issues such as skills, innovation and a competitive tax and financial regime” added Mr Temple.
ENDS