Government showcases industry’s finest

The government says it hopes the themed displays will widen manufacturing's appeal and attract talent into the sector. The theme for this opener is the engineering supply chain – exhibits have been provided by JCB and three companies from its supply chain, Craftsman Tools, Renishaw and Mazak UK. Business Minister Mark Prisk (pictured, right, with JCB's John Kavanagh) said: "Britain is a world leader in manufacturing but if we are to inspire future generations we must do all we can to promote UK excellence. As a signal of our intent we have invited shining examples of British design, engineering and manufacture to showcase their products at the department." The exhibits include a JCB backhoe loader painted in Union Jack flags, a mini mock-up of a Renishaw machine and a wing spare made by Mazak at its Worcester plant. Forthcoming exhibition topics will include green manufacturing, high-tech manufacturing, innovative design and the 2012 Olympics. The exhibition will also help to raise awareness of manufacturing in the build up to the launch of a new manufacturing framework in the autumn which promises specific plans for encouraging growth in the sector.