PM GOES NORTH TO UNVEIL PLAN FOR GROWTH
THERESA May yesterday unveiled her blueprint for rebuilding the economy to pave the way for a prosperous future outside the EU.
The Prime Minister set out the principles of her new “industrial strategy”, promising a “new, active role” for the Government in encouraging business and manufacturing. She also announced a £556million economic boost for the North of England.
In a symbol of her commitment to fostering growth across the country, Mrs May convened her weekly Cabinet meeting at the Sci-Tech Daresbury science park near Warrington, Cheshire.
“This is a very important part of our plan for Britain,” she told ministers. “This is how we shape a stronger future for the UK and also ensure we are building a fairer Britain and a better Britain.
“It is absolutely right we are launching this strategy here in the North-west.
“One of the themes that underpins what we are doing in the industrial strategy, and underpins our plan for Britain, is ensuring we drive growth across the whole of the UK.
“And you’ll see, through the industrial strategy, the pillars that are in here. You’ll see the importance of issues like infrastructure, ensuring young people have the skills they need for the future, and the way in which clusters can help to drive economic growth.
“We are seeing that very clearly here at Daresbury. I’ve just been hearing about the work that is done, the new companies that are brought together here and accessing facilities.”
In the Commons last night, Business Secretary Greg Clark announced details of a Government Green Paper setting out the principles of the industrial strategy.
He told MPs: “We will of course be ambitious in the upcoming negotiations and will secure the best possible access for firms to trade with and operate in the European market.
“But while the terms of trade with other economies are important, so is the competitiveness of our own economy.
“That’s why the Government is committed to a modern industrial strategy.”