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Identifying Growth Sectors in the South East Economy

It is not much of a speech—I think that the hon. Gentleman would agree. As he will know, the regional boundaries were set up by the right hon. Member for Suffolk, Coastal (Mr. Gummer) when the Government offices were put in place. I do not want a long debate about the peculiarities of the region or where it should begin and end. However, most organisations now organise themselves on a regional basis, not because they have any love and affection for particular boundaries, but because those boundaries provide for economies of scale. A national organisation will not be able to organise itself effectively just from the centre. That is why the CBI, the National Farmers Union, the TUC and myriad different organisations in the private, voluntary and public sectors organise themselves on a regional basis. As I said, boundaries are one thing, and I do not want to have a debate about them, but if all sectors mirror the same boundaries, we can, through our common endeavours, focus better and muster our resources. We have a real opportunity in the south-east. We are not only well placed to lead the UK in a strong recovery, but we can ensure that it is part of a sustainable green recovery. By maximising the benefits from our strong R and D and hi-tech base, by promoting resource-efficient industry and by developing cleaner energy and power, we can gain a strong foothold on the global stage and equip our economy for a low-carbon future, and the Government are working to maximise that growth potential. The chair designate of SEEDA, Mr. Rob Douglas, recently said: ““It is the private sector which generates the wealth in the South East. In the public sector we need to be efficient and effective in helping the private sector to generate that wealth””. I agree. That is why the Government are taking forward the low-carbon industrial strategy, which will see the UK become a world leader in the technologies that will deliver a low-carbon future. It is why we are taking forward the ““New industry, new jobs”” initiative, through which we are backing businesses in a range of markets and sectors, from pharmaceuticals to life sciences and plastic electronics. It is also why we have launched the ““Backing Young Britain”” campaign to ensure that our young people have the necessary skills and opportunities and that there is not another lost generation, as we saw in previous recessions. All those initiatives will benefit the south-east economy. SEEDA, Jobcentre Plus, the Learning and Skills Council and the other key regional players are already responding, as are our local authorities. In our debate today, I hope that we can be positive about the opportunities for the region and share a vision of future prosperity for all.