Welsh manufacturing has the power to transform the prospects of the British economy and the lives of future generations, according to Alan Cairns, the Secretary of State for Wales.

He was speaking at the annual Barclays and SPTS Technologies ‘Voice of Welsh Manufacturing’ event in Newport, which brings together business leaders from the manufacturing sector and ministers to discuss the upcoming challenges and the next steps for the sector.

Mr Cairns outlined how the Government’s Industrial Strategy will help to keep the UK at the forefront of crucial areas of comparative advantage, such as artificial intelligence and the automotive industry.

From compound semiconductors in Cardiff to agri-tech in Aberystwyth and life sciences in Wrexham, Wales is already embracing the opportunities provided by artificial intelligence and innovation to revolutionise many areas of manufacturing.

Mr Cairns said: “Building on Wales’ strengths, we want to work closely with businesses to support and grow the UK’s manufacturing capabilities, encourage innovation and promote exports.

That is why we are working with business to put into practice a modern Industrial Strategy for modern British manufacturing.

“From encouraging cross-border growth — following the abolition of the Severn Crossing tolls — to ensuring Welsh companies get their share of funding available, this meeting provided another platform for us to further strengthen our relationship with the manufacturing industry in Wales.”

Simon Vittle, head of manufacturing for Barclays in Wales said: “Skills shortages were a topic of conversation as usual, with the shift from vocational qualifications to university degrees and the misperceptions regarding the well-paid and rewarding roles that engineering and manufacturing careers offer.

"Inspiring the next generation of designers, engineers and makers is of paramount importance, but we need to place greater emphasis on up-skilling, retraining and lifelong learning.”