Written question asked by Parmjit Dhanda (Labour) on Thursday, 17 July 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 September 2003. It was answered by Patricia Hewitt (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 September 2003 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 action she is taking to close the productivity gap with other European Union countries. - Inc fact that copy of strategy in Library along with a companion paper setting out the analysis on which the strategy has been built.

Answer: Mr. Dhanda: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action she is taking to close the productivity gap with other European Union countries. [128204] Ms Hewitt: Today my Department publishes its strategy, setting out our priorities for the next five years to narrow the productivity gap with our competitors, including those in the EU. A copy of the strategy has been placed in the Libraries of the House, along with a companion paper setting out the analysis on which the strategy has been built. The Strategy focuses on practical action where the Department can have the greatest impact: helping business to access the knowledge and ideas it needs to innovate; encouraging employers and employees to improve their skills and create more productive, high performing workplaces; ensuring the right frameworks exist so that markets are open and fair at home and overseas; ensuring that all regions are able to fulfil their economic potential. DTI will work in close partnership with its stakeholders, customers and other policy makers to achieve these aims.

Secondary information