Today, Minister for Business and Enterprise, Mark Prisk MP, gave his keynote speech at the SMMT International Automotive Summit in Westminster to over 200 delegates from across the sector.
He congratulated the industry on recent good news and its track record through challenging economic times. The country’s export strength was referred to as a particular plus, as was the number of people employed by the sector, plus its contribution to rebalancing the economy.
On the future for the sector, the Minister commented on partnership between government and industry, guided by the Automotive Council, this collaborative approach is key to furthering the fortunes of the automotive and supply sectors.
According to Prisk, technological leadership and investment in R&D has already made great progress but more needs to be done. Private investment, coupled with government funding, is required to propel new technologies into the mass market and focused trials, supported by government are the catalyst for growth.
On developing skills, the Minister drew attention to the launch of ‘See Inside Manufacturing‘. This programme will see careers advisors, teachers and education leaders invited to see the broad range of employment opportunities as automotive businesses country wide open their doors.
Click on the play button below to watch the closing keynote speech, delivered by Mark Prisk MP, Minister of State for Business and Enterprise.
Click through for more information, news and photos from the 2011 International Automotive Summit.
