News from the UK by Martin Farmer

WEAF is an active trade association run by its Managing Director, Simon Young, in which 600 aerospace companies in the South West region of the UK are members.

On 17 February Frank Jansen gave a presentation about the characteristics of the Dutch sector and highlighted the importance of European cooperation, an interesting topic in the current political discussion in the UK. Martin Farmer, who supports the NAG and its members, was also present and could introduce Frank to the major players.

The UK industry has an impressive partnership with the government in the Aerospace Growth Partnership. A £2 Billion program which contains several initiatives for technology development, SME performance optimization and skill development. This program is a good example of a shared vision between government and private sector to get the best of the aviation market growth: jobs, tackling societal challenges and economic growth.

Later this year the NAG will organize a trade mission to the South West of England. The participation in the annual conference is a big support to get the right program in place for the NAG mission. Also we have agreed to use the Farnborough Airshow to establish first contacts between our members.

“BREXIT” – REFERENDUM ON THE UK’S FUTURE PARTICIPATION IN EUROPE

As has been widely reported, the UK’s future participation in the European Union (EU) will be decided in a referendum on the 23rd June.  Arguments between politicians supporting the “In” campaign and those who want “Out” are reported daily on news outlets.

At the WEAF Conference it was reported that 73% of UK aerospace companies believe it is beneficial for them to remain in the EU.  Ironically, it was also mentioned that UK aerospace companies should try harder to obtain EU funding – funding which might not be available after 23rd June!

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