Making manufacturing a party political issue13 November 2014

As we go to press, with the 2014 party political conference season almost over and the closing speeches still ringing (perhaps somewhat hollow?) in our ears, it's interesting to ponder the dilemma for whichever government picks up the reins next May.

A major YouGov poll ahead of the season suggests that voters have largely bought into the importance of a rebalanced economy built on a resurgent British industrial sector. Indeed, fully 85% say they want the next government to further strengthen the UK's manufacturing base, with 62% believing doing so is crucial to economic security.

Voters also consider that solid manufacturing performance is key to delivering more jobs (79%), growth (64%) and prosperity (56%). And they want to see Britain making more (59%), exporting more (64%) and competing better abroad (58%).

As EEF (the manufacturers' organisation) chief executive Terry Scuoler puts it: "The message is clear: a strong, rebalanced economy has to be ... at the heart of [all parties] election offerings." Industry and voters, he insists, are singing from the same hymn sheet.

Hard to disagree with that. Equally difficult to dispute Scuoler's assertion that more support for engineering skills and innovation, a rejuvenated and cohesive transport infrastructure, a robust but forward-looking energy policy, and, yes, staying in the EU (although probably not at any price) must be central to making it happen.

But while many will see such aspirations as little more than common sense, there remain challenges for any wannabe government. And probably top of the list is that, although voters polled on any subject may well state sincere views, when the ballot paper is in front of them, pen poised, how many consider that one topic?

Put simply, unless the argument for more, better paid and more attractive jobs captures the popular imagination, it's hard to see voters being persuaded to leave their comfort zones. Politicians know this, so, while it would be odd for party manifestos not to reiterate the rebalanced economy mantra, their marketing machines are likely to focus on more emotive issues.

And, since seasoned 24-hour news reporters are good at digging the detail behind the rhetoric, we can also expect financial commitments from all parties to fund populist promises – for example, around the health service, education and security. Yes, of course, jobs will be in the mix, but not just in industry. And the point is that any future government will hence be constrained by the cost of the deals it offers to reel in real voters.

So, take heart from the fact that engineering pay deals are running ahead of the wider economy and that 'reshoring' is on the rise. While unconstrained market forces are no recipe for success, the underlying indicators are positive and it is to be hoped the electorate may notice that.

Brian Tinham BSc CEng MInstMC FSOE FIPlantE FIRTE, Editor

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