Written question asked by Richard Burden (Labour) on Monday, 1 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 4 November 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Thursday, 4 November 2004 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 assessment she has made of the importance of the (a) motor sport and (b) performance engineering industries to the UK's industrial base. (Failed OPQ). - Inc figures.

Answer: Richard Burden: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment she has made of the importance of the (a) motor sport and (b) performance engineering industries to the UK's industrial base. [195878] Jacqui Smith: These industries form an important and highly successful part of the UK's industrial base. They employ some 40,000 people and have a sales value of £5 billion, over half of which is export sales. The Motorsport Competitiveness Panel, which was co-chaired by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, undertook a detailed assessment of the significance and future potential of the motor sport and performance engineering sectors. Its report was published on 11 July 2003 and is available in the Libraries of the House. The panel also made a number of recommendations to secure the future of these industries. We have pledged £16 million in support of these actions, which include widening participation in motor sport and improving the provision of training and qualifications.

Secondary information