Manufacturing Matters 2012

After many years of neglect we seem to have realised that a strong and vibrant manufacturing sector is fundamental to the UK economy. Given the decline of the past 30 years the task of rebuilding the manufacturing sector will not be easy and will take years – and we know that some commentators feel that the erosion of the sector and our skills base makes significant rebuilding impossible. But we think that the renewed focus on manufacturing is a good thing.

For 2012 we expect that the Government will continue to focus on the rebuilding of manufacturing and we think that this will offer some level of support. But we would like to see the Government develop a clearer and more explicit medium to long term framework/strategy for the sector with absolute clarity on how important manufacturing is to the economy and how it is to be supported to enable long term growth.

To view the full report of our expectations for the UK manufacturing sector in 2012 please click here.