Leeds' Local Industrial Strategy on the agenda with Theresa May

1 February 2019

Increasing productivity and long-term prosperity were on the agenda when Roger Marsh OBE, Chair of the Leeds City Region LEP, met with the Prime Minister, Theresa May.

He was part of a delegation representing Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) across England who briefed Mrs May on the progression of their Local Industrial Strategies.

The Leeds City Region Local Industrial Strategy will align with the Government's national Industrial Strategy to tackle long-term problems with productivity levels and economic growth.

Commenting on the meeting, Roger Marsh OBE, said: "Our Local Industrial Strategy will set out our vision to boost productivity and earnings; increase levels of innovation; improve living standards and help tackle deprivation."

"It was a productive meeting with the Prime Minister and an important chance to stress our commitment to working with the Government to ensure we have adequate resources to unlock these opportunities."

"In my role as Chair of the NP11 - the 11 LEPs in the Northern Powerhouse - I reiterated the importance our collective agenda and outlined how the North will be a major driver of UK competitiveness post-Brexit with the right levers and investments."

Theresa May, said: "Local Enterprise Partnerships have a vital role to play in delivering our modern Industrial Strategy."

"Working closely with government, their leadership is helping make sure businesses thrive as we prepare to leave the European Union."

"I was pleased to hear directly from LEP representatives how they are bringing together the local business community, universities and other partners to design long-term, ambitious plans tailored to the strengths and needs of their areas."

"Using their unique insight and expertise to co-develop Local Industrial Strategies, LEPs are boosting economic growth, securing jobs and delivering prosperity - making sure that no community is left behind."

The meeting also discussed engagement with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and rural communities, progress against the Grand Challenges identified in the Government's Industrial Strategy which aim to keep the UK at the forefront of key global trends, and discussion around the latest business intelligence from across the country ahead of the UK's departure from the EU.