06/11/09 - Teesside can become Europe's hi-tech capital

'Fly the flag for science and manufacturing' was one of the messages given to senior Conservatives from Teesside business leaders at a recent meeting at the Wilton Centre. 

Shadow Treasury Minister Mark Hoban MP and Paul Bristow, the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Middlesbrough South & East Cleveland, met with local company directors as part of an effort to engage with business.

The politicians were told that manufacturing needs Government to excite young people about careers in science and manufacturing.  Guests stated that many employees in hi-tech industries across Teesside were nearing retirement, and a generation of new employees with skills and training were needed.  Investment in vocational education, and pushing subjects such as science and technology were some of the ideas discussed. 

Shadow Treasury Minister, Mark Hoban stated:

"We heard loud and clear the message to promote manufacturing. Conservatives want to look at ways to unlock the talent in our colleges and Universities, and allow a new generation of hi-tech industries to flourish.  It was encouraging to see such industries succeeding on Teesside.  Our ambition is to see these firms grow, boost exports and create jobs. We have just launched a task force aimed at making the UK into Europe's leading exporter of hi-tech products.''    

Paul Bristow added:

"Teesside can be at the forefront of a new hi-tech Britain.  So many firms are already doing remarkable things and we have a promising future.  I want to see a future Conservative Government reawaken Teesside’s innate creativity and competitive spirit. If we nurture the next generation of scientists and engineers then Teesside can become Europe's hi-tech capital.''

 Andrew Dean Chief Executive of Spartan Nano who helped organise the meeting also believes the future is bright on Teesside if the Government invests wisely.

"Our area has the potential and the infrastructure.  What we need now is for the Government to improve its efforts to back science.''

Other matters raised included the Corus Steel works at Redcar and how firms can bid for contracts from the public sector.