In response to the publication of the Government’s ‘Building our
Industrial Strategy’ Green Paper, James Sproule, Director of
Policy at the Institute of Directors, said:
“It’s encouraging that the Governments’ new industrial strategy
takes a joined-up approach, with measures on skills,
infrastructure and research designed to complement each other and
support an agile, innovative economy. The UK has considerable
strengths, but in areas like education, transport and our
broadband network, improvements are needed to make sure the
country is ready to meet the future.
“While the industrial strategy should be seen in the context of
the UK’s long-term competitiveness, rather than just relating to
Brexit, now is a good time to think about how we create an
economy that can adapt to change.
“The emphasis on STEM skills, better careers advice and lifelong
learning are all very welcome. As automation and an ageing
population reshape the jobs market, there is a pressing need
to make it easier for people of all ages to train and re-train
flexibly. These are changes that will take time to take effect,
so it is important that the Government seeks an immigration
policy that avoids skills shortages, which would hold firms back.
“Ministers should be commended for taking a consultative approach
on these issues, we hope they will continue to listen to
businesses across the country as they develop their plans.”
