MPA reserves judgement on Industrial Strategy

Association responds with cautious welcome for launch of government green paper

THE Mineral Products Association (MPA) has cautiously welcomed publication of the Government’s Industrial Strategy green paper, but says it is reserving judgement until it has consulted its members.

MPA chief executive Nigel Jackson commented: ‘It is commendable that the Government is seeking to develop a modern industrial strategy, but in embracing all that is futuristic and new it must not ‘leave behind’ traditional manufacturing industries and sectors which provide the bedrock of the economy.

‘Innovation is not confined to the so-called advanced manufacturing industries. Continuous innovation is a feature of traditional businesses too.

‘Mineral products companies are no exception, and in providing the bulk of the essential products that underpin construction and manufacturing, they too have a key role to play in modernizing and building a better Britain.

‘To do so, the emerging strategy must not lose focus on the need to cut and improve the implementation of ‘red tape’ in response to the cumulative impacts of regulation.

‘Reducing taxation must also remain a key aim as must realizing that planning is not a proxy for housing – it is the key to all new development, particularly mineral-related activity.

‘The 10 pillars in the proposed strategy may need to increase to cater for these ‘day in, day out challenges’ if the aim to drive growth for the benefit of everyone is to be achieved.

‘We look forward to working with government to help it get its ‘boots muddy’ in the foundation industries.’