§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list his(a) national and (b) regional competitiveness objectives. [123545]
§ Ms HewittMy Department's aim is to increase competitiveness and scientific excellence in order to generate higher levels of sustainable growth and productivity in a modern economy. To achieve that, we have set ourselves four over-arching national objectives: to promote enterprise, innovation and increased productivity; to make the most of the UK's science, engineering and technology; to create strong and competitive markets; and to develop a fair and effective legal and regulatory framework. Specific targets in pursuit of these objectives are set out in the DTI Public Service Agreement, which is in the Library of the House.
At regional level, our objective is to raise the economic performance of all regions, working with other Government Departments and Regional Development Agencies. My Department pursues its policies in ways which recognise regional differences. Regional competitiveness strategies have been developed by the Regional Development Agencies, and the Department works closely with them to ensure that its regional policies, including Regional Selective Assistance, the Assisted Areas map, EU Structural Funds and new initiatives such as the enterprise grant scheme contribute towards achieving the objectives set out in these strategies.