This week I am focussing on the Festival of Manufacturing and Engineering. In fact so much so, that although Parliament is sitting, I will be in the constituency for most of the time. The Festival has generated huge interest and support. I am immensely grateful to everybody who is contributing to it. Check out the website ˆ www.stroud.ac.uk/festival.

In Parliament, I have repeatedly highlighted the value of manufacturing and engineering to our economy and, most immediately, for the creation of jobs. Last week, for instance, I signalled my intention to work for a policy to promote research and investment into energy storage systems, including the most tantalising one of being able to store significant quantities of electricity to smooth out‚ peaks and troughs of supply and demand.

Another theme of mine is the need to promote engineering across our economy through a powerful chief engineering advisor, not dissimilar in purpose and position from the existing chief scientific advisor. My interest in doing this was reinforced when I learnt more about the 'Build a Plane' challenge for schools when marking the achievements of Marling School in this project.

The Festival has three principle aims - firstly, to highlight the history of engineering and the ongoing opportunities for innovation in the Valleys and Vale. All around us are examples of achievement and we should be proud.

Second, I want to attract more investment to our area for research and development, new products and processes and openings to the new forms of engineering around the concept of the third industrial revolution‚ where software, new materials and customisation characterise production. From visiting many businesses of all types in the Valleys and Vale, I am confident of our ability to play a major part in modern manufacturing and engineering.

Third, we need more people with the skills and flexibility to make this happen. This is why the festival reaches into our schools and Stroud College to inspire young people to think about industry for their careers. The new world will be about individuals, technology and the environment all working in harmony and the Valleys and Vale is ready.

If you would like to discuss the issues raised above, please contact me on 01453 751572 or visit my website ˆ www.neilcarmichael.co.uk.