Moore Presses Minister On Support For Borders Manufacturers

12.00.00am GMT Tue 23rd Feb 2010

Continued problems in accessing finance on reasonable term and uncertainty over the future of skills training has left the future of the Borders manufacturing sector in doubt, according to local MP Michael Moore.

Speaking during a debate he was able to secure in the House of Commons this afternoon, Mr Moore pressed Ministers to level the playing field for Borders manufacturers and provide them with the support they need to compete internationally.

During the debate, Mr Moore raised the problems that many companies have experienced in securing essential finance on reasonable terms from the banks. He also urged Ministers to clarify plans for the future of skills training in the textile industry and warned of the danger to local cashmere manufacturers posed by the unfair trading practices of the Chinese industry.

This afternoon's debate follows a series of redundancy announcements across the Borders manufacturing sector in recent months, with local textile firms bearing the brunt of the job cuts.

Commenting after the debate, Mr Moore said:

'The Borders has a deserved reputation for the quality of our local manufactured goods but it is clear that our firms have been amongst those hit hardest by the economic downturn.

'Securing the future of manufacturing in the south of Scotland is not a simple problem with a single solution. Protecting jobs and allowing our firms to compete will require action on issues ranging from the local to the international - from bank lending and skills training to international trade rules.

The Government's failure to recognise the unique challenges facing the sector has compounded the damage caused by the recession. Manufacturing is an essential part of the UK economy and it is time that Ministers started treating it as such.'