Written question asked by Andrew Bennett (Labour) on Thursday, 17 October 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 31 October 2002. It was answered by Alan Johnson (Labour) on Thursday, 31 October 2002 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what progress has been made with implementation of the Government's strategy for manufacturing industry.

Answer: Andrew Bennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress has been made with implementation of the Government's strategy for manufacturing industry. [76435] Alan Johnson: The Manufacturing Strategy we published on 16 May identified seven key areas of activity for manufacturing success. We have made significant progress in all of these areas to help manufacturers fulfil their potential in the UK. For example, we have:provided additional resources for regional development agencies to help them to engage local industry with innovation, develop key business clusters and sectors, and stimulate workforce development among local employers; opened seven regional centres for manufacturing excellence;increased investment in science and innovation; and boosted promotion of best practice with the expansion of the Partnership Fund and Industry Forum.

Secondary information