Powerhouse minister calls for county to get on board in 2018

Speaking exclusively to Lancashire Business View, the minister, who is also MP for Rossendale and Darwen, declared: “Northern Powerhouse 2.0 is here.”

He added: “Let’s make sure we maintain this momentum, go forward together and take every opportunity to build a super-connected, globally-competitive northern economy.”

And in a strong rallying call to the county’s business community at the start of a new year, he said: “I want to ensure Lancashire is at the forefront of any energy and aerospace sector deals as part of the Industrial Strategy.

“As the fourth largest global aerospace cluster in the world, the county should be integral to that.”

He went on: “It was once said ‘the Empire’s bread hangs by Lancashire’s thread’.

“We were at the forefront of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Industrial Revolution. Through the Northern Powerhouse we will be at the forefront of the 4th Industrial Revolution, creating more, better paid jobs here in Lancashire.”

The minister, who was appointed to the Northern Powerhouse role by Prime Minister Theresa May last year, went on: “In 2018, I’d urge Lancashire businesses to join us on this journey – become partners – and jointly build on our strong global offer, which will be particularly important as we leave the EU.”

Mr Berry added: “As someone who has lived and worked my whole life in the North West, I know what it’s like to live in Lancashire and be in business in the area.

“I’m proud that we’re the county that invented the Spinning Jenny, the jet engine and was home to so many important players in the Industrial Revolution.

“But I’m confident that, as well as having a glorious past, Lancashire has a glorious future.”

For more expert analysis and insight into what 2018 holds for Lancashire and its business community – see the January/February issue of Lancashire Business View.