The call for a comprehensive UK industrial plan to attract investment and address the repercussions of Brexit has been revived by manufacturing organizations. Make UK has issued a stark warning that without a coordinated strategy focusing on technology, robotics, renewable energy, and training, the country could stand to lose billions in foreign investments.
The urgency for a solid industrial plan has been emphasized by Make UK’s head, Stephen Phipson, who has been actively pushing the government to take immediate action. According to Phipson, numerous international companies are expressing interest in investing billions in the UK, but are hesitant due to the lack of a clear roadmap for the future.
Phipson, representing major industry players such as Rolls-Royce, Siemens, Airbus, Tata, Jaguar Land Rover, and others, has highlighted the need for a comprehensive industrial strategy to ensure that the UK remains competitive and attractive for foreign investment. He has also criticized the trade and cooperation deal with the EU negotiated by Lord Frost, describing it as “terrible” and a missed opportunity for the UK.
The absence of a robust industrial strategy since 2010 has been a major concern for industry leaders like Phipson. The Catapult Networks, established in 2010 to support research and development in manufacturing innovation, played a crucial role in positioning the UK as a global leader in advanced materials and commercial aerospace components. However, subsequent efforts to build on this success have been lacking, with Phipson pointing out the need for a more ambitious and forward-thinking approach.
One of the key areas of concern highlighted by Phipson is the low level of robot utilization in the UK compared to other European countries. He also pointed out the lack of investment in essential infrastructure such as battery factories, which is essential for transitioning to renewable energy sources. Phipson emphasized the need for a skilled workforce to support these transitions and called for a more concerted effort in developing training programs and upgrading the national grid.
Brexit’s impact on the manufacturing industry has been significant, according to Phipson, who described it as a “disaster” that has led to major disruptions and challenges. The absence of provisions such as diagonal cumulation in the Brexit deal has made cross-border manufacturing more difficult, affecting the supply chain and overall competitiveness of UK businesses.
In light of these challenges, Phipson has urged the government to take decisive action and develop a comprehensive industrial plan that addresses key issues such as technology, training, renewable energy, and infrastructure. Without such a plan, the UK risks losing out on valuable investments and falling behind in the global market.
The need for a coordinated approach to industrial strategy has never been more critical, and industry leaders like Phipson are calling on the government to act swiftly to ensure that the UK remains competitive and attractive for foreign investment. By investing in technology, innovation, and skills development, the UK can position itself as a leader in key industries and drive economic growth in the post-Brexit era.
