The Made in Group calls on new PM, Liz Truss, to make British industry a focal point in helping the nation rebuild.
Jason Pitt, Director, Made in Group, said, "Many of our members have called for a new ministerial position in the cabinet that solely focuses on manufacturing. The new Minister for Manufacturing has considerable backing, and a recent poll conducted by the Made in Group of 200 local businesses shows that 88% supported this new role."
The manufacturing sector is a crucial part of the economy and offers excellent career opportunities. However, it has often been overlooked and misunderstood. The survey suggests a dedicated position, such as minister for manufacturing, could help. It should be part of the government's championing of this sector because it creates wealth, delivers jobs, and indirectly creates many more jobs than any other sector.
Jason added, "In light of the above risks, we propose that the Government of the United Kingdom adopt a new manufacturing strategy to increase our manufacturing output and export status. This would include prioritising high energy users such as the manufacturing sector for investments into improving energy management and shielding exposed manufacturers who are critical to the supply chain and defence of the nation."
"It's all well, and good Martin Lewis is jumping up and down about how individuals will cope, but honestly, if you have no industry, then that big problem will seem tiny in comparison."
"Manufacturing has been a big part of the British economy since the industrial revolution. But are we taking it seriously enough? Some will argue that the ideal outcome is total free trade, which ignores the risks. In an era where not every country plays by the same rules, perhaps it's naive to assume there are no negative consequences to positioning oneself as uniquely for sale. There needs to be a debate around ownership of British industry, investment and vocational learning. To do this justice, some expertise within government would be hugely beneficial to the sector and the nation."
'In addition to the industry being a stable employer and an essential ingredient in providing jobs as part of a mixed economy, it is also necessary to provide capacity for national security. How can a country realistically defend itself from external threats without this capacity? How can a nation meet the needs of its citizens without a manufacturing capability?"
"I would be delighted if Liz Truss is successful in the role; it's in the national interest that whoever is PM has some success, and we hope that she will recognise the importance of manufacturing to the future prosperity of the UK."