Commenting, Steve Radley, Director of Policy at EEF said:
"The economic storm has not yet passed and manufacturers need to see the government focusing all its attention on supporting businesses through these turbulent times and into the upturn. The retention of Lord Mandelson and Alistair Darling will provide stability in the departments that will help steer the economy out of recession."
However, commenting on the expansion of BERR, Steve Radley added:
"These are badly timed changes to the machinery of government and risk diverting energy and focus from vital programmes to support investment in skills and innovation. While there may be some logic in the merger government should not be re-inventing the wheel at a time when business is looking to it for a clear steer on the economy."
ENDS