Manufacturers lay out agenda for next UK Government
• include funding for innovation within an expanded science and innovation ring-fence, with a commitment to increase the combined budget in real terms by the end of the next Parliament;
• commit sufficient funding to the existing network of Catapult Centres to ensure that they remain cutting-edge and work to encourage higher levels of engagement with SMEs;
• develop a longer-term framework for regular assessment of the breadth of science and innovation support to ensure all schemes remain well-directed and adequately funded; and
• increase funding for export initiatives and overseas in-country support.
Infrastructure The Government needs to ensure that the UK is ahead of the curve in providing vital transport and digital capability as part of its long-term planning. It should:
• commit to creating a UK Infrastructure Authority to strengthen analysis behind decisions on major infrastructure investments and support the decision-making process to ensure that the right plans are in place at the right time; and
• implement the recommendations of the Airports Commission after the next election.
Energy and resource security The UK needs to put in place the planning, investment and technology needed to secure a competitively-priced energy supply and other natural resources for the future.
Staying in the EU According to EEF, 85% of UK manufacturers believe that the UK’s national interest will be best served by staying in a reformed EU, which is focused on trade, extending the free market and improving opportunities for growth in jobs and industry among all member states.
