Manufacturers across the South West are calling for a massive boost to infrastructure and innovation in Chancellor George Osborne’s Autumn Statement to build on the strong economic recovery and lay foundations for longer-term economic growth.
The call comes from the EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, in its submission to the Autumn Statement.
It focuses heavily on the need to make further progress on existing areas of reform which can influence manufacturers’ current and future investment plans, in particular infrastructure and innovation, together with skills funding.
It also seeks supply side reforms which will influence current and future investment plans by manufacturers, as well as the need to maintain a strongly competitive and stable business tax regime.
EEF region director Phil Brownsord said: “We have seen a significant turnaround in the economy over the last year, and it is important for the Government to maintain its focus on areas which drive growth, including maintaining a competitive tax regime and other measures which support high value investment and innovation.
“Despite the forthcoming election, Government must continue to drive forward with policies which support long term growth and the re-balancing of our economy.
“Manufacturers are also heavily reliant on road networks. Implementation of those projects left on the too difficult list for too long is an urgent priority.
“In addition, Government has created a network of innovation centres which bring industry and universities together as a seed-bed for new ideas and business opportunities. Amid the many funding pressures ministers face I hope that support for the existing Catapult centres will therefore be enhanced to make sure they stay at the cutting edge of technology and keep Britain at the forefront of manufacturing excellence.”
