EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, is calling on whoever wins June’s General Election to commit to a ‘long-term, ambitious industrial strategy’. Tony McDonough reports

North West manufacturers fear a failure to reach a comprehensive Brexit trade deal could scupper their growth ambitions.

EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, is calling on whoever wins June’s General Election to commit to a “long-term, ambitious industrial strategy”.

In its manifesto, ‘Making the Future, making Britain Great’, EEF is urging a new Government to build on the momentum created by the surge in recent manufacturing performance in recent data including GDP and PMI figures.

However, EEF’s interim region director in the North West, Richard Halstead, warned that Brexit risked swamping plans to boost economic growth.

He said: “Manufacturing industry must be at the heart of any new Government’s vision for a strong and successful economic plan for the UK.

“Manufacturing firms across the North West represent the best of British business and they need to feel certain that Government is backing them in the face of the complex process of leaving the EU.”

Key points of the EEF’s manifesto, include:

 A comprehensive industrial strategy to boost economic growth and social wellbeing across the UK

An ambitious Brexit deal that retains the benefits of the single market and enables seamless trade between Britain and the EU with minimal cost to business

A new immigration system giving employers the ability to manage work permits ensuring they have access to the people and skills they need

A boost for innovation, enhancing research and development incentives and making a solid commitment to improve digital technology, including the expansion of fast broadband

A clear commitment to deliver the third runway at Heathrow and improve road and rail links