This week, Policy Connect reconvened the Manufacturing Commission, which forms the research arm of the All-Party Parliamentary Manufacturing Group. The Commission, chaired by Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea, held a meeting to determine the scope of a new inquiry on Industrial Strategy. The forthcoming inquiry will seek to support the aims of the Industrial Strategy and make recommendations to help overcome barriers to investment within the manufacturing sector.

Opening remarks were provided by Antonia Bance MP, Catherine Atkinson MP, and Baggy Shanker MP, before a discussion with a wide range of organisations from industry, academia, and the third sector. Themes emerging as a priority for the inquiry include sovereign ownership, support for SMEs, access to finance, energy costs, and the role of the Industrial Strategy Council.

Policy Connect is currently seeking sponsorship to help bring forward this important inquiry. If you would be interested in supporting this work, please contact Policy Manager for the All-Party Parliamentary Manufacturing Group, Rob Allen: robert.allen [at] policyconnect.org.uk (robert[dot]allen[at]policyconnect[dot]org[dot]uk).