Liam Fox MP: Conservative agenda for the South West

Before the General Election, the Conservatives set out a clear set of aims for the South West in a speech given by the Chancellor, George Osborne in Plymouth.  There were six clear strategic objectives detailed.

They were, first, to increase the long term growth rate of the South West to – at least - the expected average for the UK as a whole. Currently, although we constitute 8.4% of the population, we provide only 7.5% of our economic output.

The second aim was to sustain job creation in the region with 150,000 more people employed by the end of the decade.

Thirdly, transforming connections, both in transport via a £7.2bn investment plan and in the crucial area of digital connectivity.

The fourth aspect of the plan is to ensure that the large defence assets present in the region support the local economy, high tech manufacturing and high end skills.

The fifth is to boost science, support tech clusters and green energy, to promote skills development and an innovative rural economy.

The sixth objective of the plan is to make the most of the region’s outstanding natural beauty and unique cultural heritage as part of a boost to tourism.

At the election, a blue tide swept through the peninsula and now every constituency between Bristol and Land End, with the exception of Exeter is in Conservative hands.

We understand the responsibility and duties that are placed upon us by this landslide but are thrilled at the opportunity it brings to speak as one to our own government about the issues facing the South West, giving the region the single voice it has so lacked in the past. There may be 56 SNP MPs speaking for Scotland but there are now 51 Conservative MPs speaking for the South West.

We will be constructive and supportive, giving the government time and space to deliver on its promises but we will not hesitate to hold Ministers to account where those promises do not materialise. This is a once in a generation opportunity and we are determined to take full advantage of it.