§ 16. Mr. BaronTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she is taking to improve the UK's position in the world competitiveness league table. [16485]
§ Ms HewittImproving UK competitiveness involves business, employees and consumers as well as Government. The Government have created a stable economic environment in which business can prosper, a climate for enterprise and the right framework for investment. We delivered low inflation, the lowest long-term interest rates for 35 years and consistent policies on tax and regulation. Last week I announced a series of changes to give my own Department a clear emphasis on enterprise, innovation and competition so that it is better focused on the need to close the UK's productivity gap with its competitors.