£40m backing for technology and careers in manufacturing

In a speech to industry leaders Pat McFadden (pictured) set out the need for an investment in skills as well as new technologies. "Britain has a great manufacturing future, not just a great manufacturing past. We are the sixth largest manufacturing economy globally. But the face of manufacturing here is changing and we need to embrace and support the numerous opportunities created as a result," he went on. The new manufacturing centre at Ansty Park in the Midlands would form part of a national network of centres offering support for business and universities, the minister said. The network would support innovation in manufacturing, helping new and emerging products and processes get to market. The £40 million investment comes from Advantage West Midlands and East Midlands Development agency. Up to twenty projects have already been identified to use the new centre at Ansty Park and it is hoped that up to 150 highly skilled jobs will be created. Over the next ten years a total of £130 million will be invested in the centre. He added: "It's not just technology that will help us move forward, we need the right people with the right skills too. Which is why I'm delighted to also be launching Manufacturing Insight. It will be promoting our success and working to attract the best of the next generation into these exciting, challenging careers."