Engineering news
A step change is needed to improve British exports, including cabinet-level political leadership, according to a new report.
A study commissioned by the last Labour opposition before the election said that turning around exports was a "huge task" which should not be underestimated.
The commission, chaired by Graham Cole, chairman of AgustaWestland, made a series of recommendations including reforming government bodies which deal with exports.
It suggested that the prime minister establish a new committee and encourage greater collaboration between key trade bodies to boost Britain's international commerce.
It suggested that UK Trade and Investment and UK Export Finance (UKEF) be brought closer together in order to create a more “joined up” approach to Britain’s overseas trade effort.
The review also recommended that an export committee should meet regularly and report each year to the prime minister, the secretary of state for business innovation and skills, and the minister for trade and investment.
The report also recommends the establishment of a “One Stop Shop” network globally to support British business overseas and help exporters to compete more effectively with China, Germany and emerging market manufacturers.
Cole said: "Our recommendations are about culture, structure and mindset. There must be a role reversal where government sees business as the customer. Leadership has to come from the top and whilst we are pleased to see steps have already been taken to deliver cabinet-level political accountability, we are also clear that business must also have a seat at the top table to drive through these changes.
"Government support and finance can no longer remain apart in a world where a competitive funding packaging is as important as the quality of the product on sale."
Philippa Oldham, head of transport and manufacturing at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said the report offers useful guidance, direct from business, on what the government needs to do to boost the UK’s export market.
She added: “Proposals for Cabinet-level leadership to drive exports, combined with an Implementation Committee could hold the key to driving real growth in UK exports across the supply chain.
“In terms of supporting SMEs, government needs support schemes that are focused and co-ordinated ― currently there are too many disparate support initiatives co-ordinated by different government departments. The report is right to recommend a one-stop-shop which co-ordinates and simplifies all the export support for SMEs.”
Paul Raynes, director of policy at the manufacturers' organisation EEF, said: "The Cole Commission offers a timely review of the actions that need to be taken to grow UK exports. With a new cabinet-level implementation taskforce on exports now in place, and a Budget fast approaching, ideas about how best to drive forward exports will be key."
The full report can be found here.