Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Carol Monaghan and Greg Clark

Tuesday 14th March 2017 Commons Chamber

[Greg Clark]

I am glad that my hon. Friend is not questioning me on inertia ratios and matrices. The capacity is there, but it requires planning ahead. That is why the industrial strategy mentions the need to invest in science and research and development—it is important that we do that—and the need to look forward to make sure that we have the skills in the workforce to fulfil the order books. The purpose of having a long-term industrial strategy is so that we are prepared to reap those very opportunities.

[Carol Monaghan (Glasgow North West) (SNP)]

6. What support his Department is providing to small businesses as a result of the UK’s decision to leave the EU.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Carol Monaghan and Greg Clark

Tuesday 8th November 2016 Commons Chamber

[Stuart C. McDonald (Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch East) (SNP)]

11. What steps his Department has taken to develop a long-term strategy for business growth since the UK’s decision to leave the EU.

[The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (Greg Clark)]

We are creating a business environment that supports growth and investment by cutting corporation tax, by investing in infrastructure, by expanding our world-beating science, research and innovation activities, by increasing the number of apprenticeships, and by devolving power all across Britain. Our industrial strategy will build on these strengths, and we will work with industry, local leaders, investors, workers and consumers to build the conditions for future success.

[Carol Monaghan]

In Scotland, skills shortages in key areas have proved challenging when businesses are seeking to grow. The post-study work visa remains an important lever for promoting innovation and growth. Does the Secretary of State agree that it is now time to extend the post-study work visa pilot to include Scottish higher education institutes?

[Greg Clark]

It is important that we attract the world’s brightest and best students to our fantastic universities, and all of us in the Government have a commitment to that. We have visa arrangements in place so that people can work in graduate jobs after that, and it is important that they should be able to do so.