The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) will be promoting the automotive manufacturing industry has a vital part of driving the UK’s economic recovery at a series of Party Conference fringe events over the next three weeks.

The SMMT is seeking cross-party support for measures to help unlock private sector investment into R&D, specialist skills training and new plant and machinery.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said: “It is not a question of if investment in the global automotive industry will take place, but when and where it will happen.

“The competition for high value investment is intense and it is essential the UK does all it can to win its share.
“The industry has demonstrated great strength and resilience and this has been rewarded by new commitments to UK facilities from global vehicle manufacturers.

“There are now real opportunities to strengthen the UK supply base and bring new investment into fast emerging ultra-low carbon technologies. Targeted tax incentives and support programmes can help trigger the private sector investment needed to kick start growth.”

The UK is well placed to take the lead in moving toward a low carbon economy, and SMMT will present a position paper at the party conference fringe events, outlining its stance on low carbon growth.

On the automotive industry’s behalf, the SMMT will use the paper to focus discussion on Government-led measures to ensure long-term investment in low carbon technologies and specialist skills training, while raising consumer awareness of low carbon options.