Isle Of Wight Manufacturing Sector Highlighted In Westminster Debate

The Isle of Wight’s advanced manufacturing industry has been highlighted in a Westminster debate on skills and the future of British industry.

Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley led the debate on Tuesday (20 October), naming businesses including GKN, BAE Systems, Vestas, Rheinmetall, Wight Shipyard, Diverse Marine, Johnson Electric and In-flight Peripherals.

He also highlighted the need to ensure local people have the skills to take up jobs created by investment and growth in the sector.

Mr Quigley pointed to the work of the Isle of Wight Skills Group and a recent summit bringing together manufacturers, employers, colleges and training providers to discuss workforce development.

Responding for the Government, Skills Minister Lillian Greenwood said Island businesses demonstrated the breadth of modern British manufacturing.

She also highlighted the planned Large Structures Innovation Centre and the Isle of Wight College’s Specialist Centre for Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing, saying investment in facilities needed to go hand-in-hand with developing skilled workers.