Seeking chemical reaction over future of the industry

Tees Valley chemical firms want to know the outcome of a Department of Trade and Industry report into the future of chemical plants in the UK.

At Monday's meeting with the Department of Trade and Industry Minister, Lord Sainsbury, local leaders urged the Government to speed up the long-term study.

It is hoped that the report will encourage innovative ideas coming out of the industry such as the development of hydrogen fuel cell technology - a technology that could power everything from cars to electrical goods.

This type of work is seen as crucial to the long-term survival of many of the chemical firms in the Tees Valley.

The delegation of MPs and business described the meeting as positive and productive.

Ashok Kumar, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, who attended the meeting, said: "The united message from the delegation was that the chemicals industry in the Tees Valley can have a bright future, with the help and encouragement of the Government.

"The DTI study will make a major contribution to helping us deliver a planned strategy which identifies those areas which need to support investment in new plants and technologies."

He stressed the importance of acting on the report's findings. He said: "Put simply, we need the study speeded up and made available for our local chemical companies.

"We also want recognition to be given by government to some of the exciting and innovative new ideas coming from the industry."

Also at the meeting were Redcar MP Vera Baird, Tees Valley Development Company chief executive Neil Etherington and Teesside Chemical Initiative chairman Wayne Barnacle.

After the meeting Mr Etherington said: "In our previous talks with the Prime Minister and Lord Sainsbury we have emphasised the integrated nature of the chemical industry in Tees Valley. This integration can only be maintained if there is sufficient investment in new plant and equipment."