Industrial Strategy unveiled by the Prime Minister - Sheffield Chamber reaction

23rd January 2017

Richard Wright, Executive Director of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce said: -The Industrial Strategy unveiled by the Prime Minister today seems to be a real attempt to build upon some of the principles she has outlined about making Britain better for everybody.

-I particularly like the regional aspect to it which is something the Chambers have been lobbying for. One size does not fit everybody across the country and we all have different priorities. -Of course, the devil will be in the detail.  The circa £560million for the Northern Powerhouse is great but how long will it be spent over? -Picking sectors has delivered mixed results in the past so the focus on skills and research and development is a good idea. A different approach to finance investment is also needed. -Get the foundations right and the rest will follow! -The Government has outlined a more interventionist policy which can work to a point. We must all remember, however, that government cannot do everything. Business needs to pick up the cudgel and become more productive and create wealth.