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Business Secretary meets with Gloucester LEP

Business Secretary Vince Cable met with members of the Gloucester Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) to discuss its progress in skills and investment in the region.

Dr. Cable showed a particular interest in the LEP’s work on the Government pilot scheme for the retail sector and the Gloucester Banking Group.

Gloucester was chosen by the Department for Business Skills and Innovation to be the first to trial the national retail Pathfinder, and the Banking Group has already received praise for its work with local firms and members of central government.

David Owen, chief executive of GFirst, which is the main driver behind the LEP, commented: “We were delighted to meet with the Business Secretary and tell him about what Gloucestershire LEP has achieved and our vision to inspire growth in the county.

“He was very interested in the work of our Banking Group, not least the fact that all the bankers are able to put competition aside for the greater good of the county.

“Our businesses have really got behind the LEP since it was launched just under two years ago and with their continued support we will ensure that this county prospers.”

Dr Cable added: “The Gloucestershire Local Enterprise Partnership is a good example of how businesses can work together with local government to help boost skills and investment and drive economic growth.

“It was useful to learn more about what the Gloucestershire LEP is doing, especially in the banking and retail sector and the work they are doing to promote apprenticeships.

“It’s clear they are totally focussed on building a stronger economy for the County. I hope to meet with them again soon to hear an update on their work.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .