‘Industrial strategy should be for the whole country, not just major cities’, says councillor Colin Davie

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The executive Lincolnshire councillor in charge of economic growth in the county has welcomed a new industrial strategy launched by the government, but with a caveat that focus should be on the whole country, “not just the major cities”.

The government’s 255-page white paper, unveiled on Monday, November 27, maps out a solution to boosting the country’s productivity, with a particular focus on research and development spending and technical skills.

Business groups including the Institute of Directors and British Chambers of Commerce have given the papers, published by Business Secretary Greg Clark, a broadly positive welcome.

Clark stressed the need for industry strategies was more pressing after the forecast for the UK’s productivity trend was halved by the Office for Budget Responsibility to 1% in last week’s Autumn budget.

Regional benefits

Conservative Councillor Colin Davie, Executive Member for Economy and Place at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The government’s new industrial strategy should give businesses the support they need to thrive for decades to come. And a strong economy is good news for everyone.

“However, we must make sure that it really is an industrial strategy for the whole country, and not just our major cities.

“Lincolnshire has a strong engineering sector with world-class businesses, and is a key player in the Midlands Engine. It’s clear that we will have an important role to play going forward.

“I’m confident that the government recognises this and am sure that in the coming days there will be further announcements specifically outlining how our regional economy will benefit going forward. I look forward to learning more.”