Engineering "at the heart" of national economic growth strategy, says Clegg

Deputy prime minister Nick Clegg has assured that engineering "lies right at the heart" of the government's national economic growth strategy, egovmonitor.com reports.

Mr Clegg is due to announce plans that will help boost the number of jobs in engineering, aerospace and automotive manufacturing, as part of a business summit featuring some of the world's top companies.

A series of panel-led discussions will evaluate the strengths of British engineering today and explore what other avenues can be pursued to push the sector forward.

"Our manufacturing sector is a national success story and lies right at the heart of our strategy for economic recovery and growth," Mr Clegg said.

"The announcements being made today will create and safeguard jobs and stimulate growth. They are a welcome boost to British business and a vote of confidence in the UK."

Business secretary Vince Cable added that the government is working closely with private industry to generate "growth, encourage innovation, exports and inward investment as well as build UK supply chains".

Themaufacturer.com explains that the summit is one of 18 that will be held, just off the back of the success of the London 2012 Olympic Games, timed to boost a range of domestic sectors.

Last week attendees to the Retail, Food and Drink summit heard of positives regarding the growth in demand for British exports.