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This is a statement from Martin Swales, Solace Spokesperson for Economic Prosperity and Housing, in response to the publication of the Industrial Strategy White Paper:

“Solace believes that national prosperity is rooted in unlocking local prosperity. The very welcome recognition of “place” as one of the five foundations of the Industrial Strategy shows that Government has listened to local government. In particular, the commitment to develop Local Industrial Strategies represents a significant opportunity for all parts of the country to benefit from future economic prosperity and enable councils to tackle genuine inclusive growth.

Local government needs certainty, stability, and flexibility to play our full part in creating the conditions for economic success. Our strength lies in the unique leadership role that we play in our areas by brokering partnerships across sectors, aligning investment and policy decisions on transport, housing, skills, and other issues. Financial stability for local government is vital to allow continued investment in our local areas and ensure that no one in our communities gets left behind.

We look forward to working with Government and supporting Solace members to translate the Industrial Strategy into local delivery. As one element of this work, we recently launched our position paper on Skills and Local Economic Growth. It is more important now than ever that the Industrial Strategy is a catalyst to bring vital employment growth in local areas ensuring Every Job Counts. Local government, with its democratic mandate, knowledge, experience, and powers, is best-placed to ensure that it does.”