Welcome to the latest edition of North West Matters.

There is a tremendous amount of work going on in the region to help families and businesses through the economic downturn.

That partnership work is reflected in a new web site ‘Support North West’ which I was delighted to launch in April.

It provides a wealth of easily accessible advice tailored specifically for North West businesses and families and sets out where to find it.

Like all regions of the UK, the North West is facing its share of challenges. Our priority is to ensure that the region is well placed to both weather the recession and quickly take advantage of the recovery.

The Joint Economic Commission is leading the region’s response and has been getting out and about in recent months. Our March meeting took place at New East Manchester’s offices and focussed on the effects the economic downturn is having on local communities - especially the most vulnerable groups.

We considered the issue of bank lending, looked to build on the prompt payment commitment, considered the region’s future skills needs in preparation for the upturn and asked the NWDA to lead on proposing how to support opportunities from the renewables sector which is a long-term JEC strategic priority.

Our May meeting was in Accrington when main points of discussion centred on labour market trends, the Business Link offer, our collective help for young people and industrial activism.

There was further consideration of prompt payment policies from large businesses and promotion of the HMRC business payment support service to businesses. 

On a visit to Cumbria I met Cumbria Vision and leaders and chief executives of local councils to discuss the impact of the economic downturn and how partners in the county are working to counter its effects.

In Ulverston and Barrow I saw the work of Marl International Limited which specialises in ultra efficient lighting, submarine builders BAE Systems and community enterprise Signal Films which provides opportunities and training in film and digital media for people of all ages.

To find three companies that are performing so well locally and internationally is a real boost during these difficult times. I was particularly impressed by the commitment to help young people whether through apprenticeships, management opportunities or giving them new training.

As always, I am keen to hear your views on the economy and other issues, so the voice of the North West is heard when these key decisions are taken. Please contact me at: regional.minister@gonw.gsi.gov.uk.

Best wishes

In this edition 

• This and more news from around the region can be found on the news page.
  
• The latest on my three regional priorities: Worklessness, Apprenticeships and Access to finance for small business