YEOVIL NEWS: Marcus Fysh urges PM to back Yeovil aerospace firms

YEOVIL NEWS: Marcus Fysh urges PM to back Yeovil aerospace firms

YEOVIL MP Marcus Fysh has urged the Prime Minister to back the Yeovil area’s aerospace firms and workforce when she draws up plans for a long-term industrial strategy in the UK.

Theresa May invited Mr Fysh to submit his industrial strategy proposals to her Industrial Policy Board when they met in Westminster with detailed ideas on how to re-invigorate the helicopter and engineering industries and retain and enhance the skilled workforce in Yeovil and the South West.

It comes following huge question marks were put against the future of the Yeovil-based GKN firm which has resulted in a wave of uncertainty for the long-term aerospace industry in the area.

Mr Fysh was also recently elected by fellow MPs to join a House of Commons Select Committee for International Trade, scrutinising and designing Britain's future international trade arrangements.

“I'll use my influence with the Industrial Policy Board and Select Committee to stand up for Yeovil and the South West so we have highly skilled jobs and a growing economy,” he said.

“I'm working hard to support GKN and its workers and will use every opportunity to fight on their behalf - lobbying ministers in Parliament and business leaders so we can bolster our aerospace industry, boost trade and increase our export performance.

“I've already spoken to local firms Leonardo, GKN, AGC and other potential inward investors.

“I have an ongoing dialogue with the Defence Secretary who is committed to the helicopter industry in Yeovil, having signed a partnering deal with Leonardo to play a vital role in supporting our Armed Forces helicopter fleets.

“Leonardo is set to benefit from around £3bn MoD spending over the next decade, and I have also made sure the Government is actively helping Leonardo with its international sales efforts.”

Mr Fysh added: “I'll be meeting GKN bosses and staff again soon to discuss specific measures to keep our skilled workforce in Yeovil and will keep the PM informed of all developments.”

PHOTO - TOP: Prime Minister Theresa May with Yeovil MP Marcus Fysh.

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