Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department is taking to increase manufacturing jobs in (a) Essex and (b) nationally.

Essex has a vibrant manufacturing sector and Basildon is home to many key businesses including Ford, Leonardo and New Holland. The strength of the Essex economy means that it is home to two freeports including the Thames Freeport in the Right Honourable member’s constituency.

Our new Industrial Strategy is central to the Governments Growth Mission. The Strategy will drive long-term sustainable, inclusive and secure growth throughout the UK, with advanced manufacturing being one of eight growth-driving sectors the strategy will support. The Strategy will support growth sectors to create high-quality, well-paid jobs across the country.