Politicians urged to seize £352 billion opportunity for UK

A|D|S, the UK's AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation has launched its manifesto for the growth of the UK's world-class aerospace industry ahead of the forthcoming General Election.

Jobs and the economic benefits that are delivered by the sector are as much about competition between governments as between companies. The UK industry, which has a 17% global market share making it number one in Europe and second only to the US worldwide, aims to make clear to political parties in the run-up to the election that their ongoing support for the industry will see a significant return on investment both directly and indirectly.

Forecasts predict that 25,000 new passenger and freighter aircraft worth US $3.1 trillion will be delivered between 2009 and 2028. A 17% share of that market is worth $527 billion (approximately £352 billion). The industry is at the crossroads between growing that market share for the UK or losing a significant proportion of it to other nations. Decisions taken by the next Government in terms of investment in technology and skills will shape the success of this crucial sector for the UK economy.

Ian Godden, chairman of A|D|S, said: “The UK aerospace industry is number one in Europe and second only to the US worldwide with a 17% global market share. It employs over 100,000 people across all regions of the UK and delivers over £20 billion per year.

“Countries such as the US, Spain, Germany, Singapore and China are seeking to grow their market shares at our expense. Our industry can contribute to a major lucrative extent as we seek to recover from recession providing the UK Government raises its game in terms of investment. This support will see a return that will do more than simply pay back the original investment. It will deliver high value jobs for the long-term, creating many ‘green collar' jobs in aerospace because this future market will be supplied with new aircraft that are tremendously fuel efficient.

“Success therefore depends on a strong industrial policy and commitment from the UK Government at all levels for aerospace to thrive. There are many examples of countries benefiting from government investment in successful aerospace companies. It's a winning formula and it's the one message that our government must understand if we are to secure and grow our long-term success in this vital sector.”
 
To build on UK success in aerospace, ADS is seeking commitments from a future Government:
 
1. To work with UK industry to ensure that the UK remains competitive in manufacturing and services.

2. Investment in collaborative research and development to drive down risk and enable technology transfer.

3. Greater priority to the Technology Strategy Board (TSB). The TSB's budget is insufficient to fulfil its task of supporting success stories like aerospace.

4. Support for an Aeronautics Research Institute; necessary to coordinate national research programmes and provide a stronger voice for the industry in Europe.

5. Investment in skills and training to provide a workforce that attracts international investors.

6. Cabinet level support for big programme campaigns and UK aerospace exports.

7. Recognition that aerospace provides ‘green collar' jobs.

 
www.adsgroup.org.uk

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