A LIVELY discussion about manufacturing and its place in the regional economy has taken place in Redditch.

The debate was a chance for local manufacturers to quiz Minister for Industry and town MP Jacqui Smith, as well as a panel of manufacturing experts from the area.

The Herefordshire amd Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce event at the Abbey Hotel Golf and Country Club was themed around the Government's review of its Manufacturing Strategy, first published two years ago.

"The audience kept the panel on its toes," said Christopher Harvey, head of policy and representation at the chamber of commerce.

"They were well prepared with some interesting and incisive questions. However, the panel was also very well prepared and had obviously done their homework.

"It was an open and frank debate about manufacturing from which everyone gained something."

The debate covered training and skills, research and development and the image manufacturing has with young people.

Panel member Mark Day, of the Learning and Skills Council, said skills must be at the top of the agenda.

"As both a manufacturing employer and a council member for the local LSC, I know skills are a crucial issue for local manufacturing employers, with more than two thirds already experiencing skills shortages," said Mr Day, who is also general manager of Eaton Aerospace, in Redditch.

"If we are to compete on a global basis in an increasingly technological market, skills must be top of any manufacturer's agenda."