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The creation of new technologies and new products brings exciting new possibilities for the whole country, and the prospect of new and better jobs for its people. A few moments ago, I mentioned the extent to which the north-east economy suffered during the recessions of the 1930s and the 1980s. I know that the spectre of unemployment is still viewed by many people in the region as a real threat.
I am delighted that my hon. Friend has brought this debate to the House. The science and innovation in his constituency demonstrate what can be done, and the north-east is fast becoming a powerhouse in that field. I am pleased to support his desire to mobilise even further effort and I know that my noble Friend the Minister looks forward to visiting my hon. Friend’s constituency. When I visit universities in the north-east, I, too, am keen to see such developments and, more important, how they work for local people.
I want to raise one further point, which is about what we now call “skills activism”. We recognise that in the economic downturn we will need to be more proactive in helping young people and adults to identify future areas of growth. That will be important in my hon. Friend’s constituency, and I suspect it lies behind much that he said towards the end of his speech about pointing his constituents towards what is clearly a much brighter future, notwithstanding the difficult times we are experiencing.
We in the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills look forward to working with my hon. Friend and the regional development agency. I thank him for bringing the matter to the House.
6.32 pm
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