Minister Promises Help for SMEs and Exporters at MTA Parliamentary Reception
Published : November 13, 2008
Ian Pearson, Minister for Business and Economic Secretary to the Treasury voiced his strong support for UK manufacturing at a House of Commons Reception held by the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) on 12 November. The Minister addressed over 120 guests comprising of MTA members and their customers , MACH exhibitors and Members of Parliament . The Minister commented on the recent Manufacturing Strategy Review remarking "there are lots of good things in the strategy review and there is more we can do as a Government. Its vital in these economic times that we listen" the Minister then urged manufacturers to talk to Government to "enable us to focus on areas where we can take urgent action to create the right environment for business".
MTA President Bob Hunt in his speech to guests admitted that we were in uncertain times and that although this was not a manufacturing led recession the MTA did expect some downturn in the manufacturing technologies sector. However he went on to say:
"At worst: the current picture is patchy. We have come out of the last 3 years with very strong growth and many of our members are still reporting strong activity. We have faith that our successful sectors, - Aerospace, Medical, Auto Sport and now Nuclear and Renewable Energy will continue to provide the necessary opportunities for the future."
The MTA hosted reception also enabled guests the opportunity to network with politicians and in many cases meet their local Member of Parliament to discuss their businesses and the support they require from Government. The reception is just a small part of the great deal of lobbying work carried out by the MTA, who have been working closely with Government to ensure manufacturing is properly represented and the Association was credited with influencing some of the points raised in the Government's Manufacturing Strategy.
