31 August 2010
Technology businesses in Malvern were this week given Ministerial support in a reply to a letter sent by Harriett Baldwin. David Willetts, Minister of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, wrote to the West Worcestershire MP expressing his support for the important work done in Malvern. And the Minister said that the Government is ‘fully committed’ to supporting the work carried out by the important science and technology companies based in Malvern including QinetiQ. In the letter he said: “We do recognise that it is crucial we strike the right balance between making savings and creating an environment that promotes sustainable growth and enables businesses to invest with confidence.” The Minister also revealed that a White Paper will be unveiled in the Autumn to show how the funds previously allocated by Advantage West Midlands will be allocated and “more closely aligned to the needs of companies and local people in areas like Malvern.” Harriett welcomed the news and commented. “I am heartened by the response by the Minister as he clearly understands the national importance of some of the emerging technologies being shut down by QinetiQ. However, I am concerned about the time scale and so I have replied asking for an urgent meeting."