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Navigating Government Policy and Regulation

Automate UK's Role in Shaping the Future of UK Manufacturing

Government policies and regulations have a major bearing on the manufacturing industry. They must be understood and navigated for manufacturing businesses to stay competitive and foster innovation.

Automate UK, that includes key associations such as PPMA (Processing and Packaging Machinery Association), UKIVA (UK Industrial Vision Association), and BARA (British Automation and Robot Association), plays a pivotal role in influencing and responding to government updates.

With Labour having come to power on the 5th of July, now is the ideal time to analyse the impact of current and upcoming government policies on the manufacturing sector. We’ll also look at the critical advocacy role of industry associations here.

Analysis of Current and Upcoming Policies 

The Labour Party set out its industrial strategy back in September 2023. Focusing on the opportunity for immense change, it highlighted the UK’s economic underperformance under Conservative leadership. The relatively low levels of business investment and productivity were highlighted as key issues, with a focus on the Labour mission of delivering growth through partnership.

Labour’s industrial strategy included the proposal for a clear and consistent policy framework that businesses can trust and prosper within. It highlighted the four key missions of delivering clean power by 2030, caring for the future, harnessing data for the public good, and building a resilient economy. Britain stands to benefit from greater innovation, growth, and productivity in realising these four missions.

A range of initiatives have been included within Labour’s industrial strategy. These include the Made Smarter programme –first introduced under the Conservatives as a movement to drive productivity and advance the UK economy. Backed by UK businesses and government, this programme is focused on the development and adoption of emerging technologies through more ambitious leadership, greater innovation, and more rapid implementation.

While manufacturing was only mentioned four times in the Labour manifesto, these policy aims were outlined:

  • Maintaining “strong fiscal rules”, which will allow for “prudent investment”
  • Improving stability in contrast to the “Conservative chaos”
  • Capping corporation tax at 25% for the duration of parliament
  • Ensuring that there’s only one major fiscal event per year
  • Continuing the commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050
  • Taking an active role in the shaping of markets as part of a “dynamic strategic state”.

As highlighted in our recent article on Harnessing Technology for Economic Growth, the Labour Government has introduced an industrial strategy council. This will invite the participation of academics and manufacturing sector experts in reviewing the progress and economic impacts of the Government’s industrial strategy.

A new National Wealth Fund has also been proposed, with the Government injecting £7.3bn for the support of transformative investments across the UK. Once more there’s an emphasis on partnership, with the Government aiming to attract £3 of private investment for every £1 of public investment.

The Impact of Regulatory Changes on the Industry

Although the scope of Labour’s proposed changes is quite limited, manufacturers will inevitably face compliance costs as new policies are introduced. Such costs are likely to be particularly challenging for SMEs. However, Automate UK offers guidance in managing such expenses. As the leading trade association for automation suppliers and technology end users, it will continue to lobby the Government on key issues and share regular updates on newly introduced financing schemes.

Representing a diverse community of manufacturing sector members, Automate UK also recognises the importance of compliance with UK and international regulations. Such compliance is vital for innovation and competitiveness across global markets. It promises to keep members informed of global regulatory changes, using our influence to ensure that UK standards align with international norms for smooth export operations.

It is hoped that in focusing on partnership, the Labour Government can manage and overcome many of the challenges highlighted in Automate UK’s industry insights report. This will mean taking steps to minimise the supply chain issues, which have had a major impact on UK manufacturing companies over recent years. There should also be a focus on education to ensure the availability of skilled labour needed to support automation.

Advocacy and the Role of Industry Associations in Shaping Policy

Actively involved in policy advocacy, Automate UK makes a key difference in ensuring that industry voices are heard. Working with its members, it will continue to influence the shaping of policies to support automation adoption and the enhancement of manufacturing capabilities. This will involve lobbying for investment in digital infrastructure, R&D funding, and favourable trade conditions.

Members of Automate UK stand to benefit through:

  • The sharing of industry updates, expert insights, and best practices
  • Access to training and workshops covering key topics such as compliance and digital innovation
  • Opportunities for collaboration at regular events such as the PPMA Show.

With access to such comprehensive support, members will have the best chance of navigating regulatory complexities. Believing in the power of partnership, it will open dialogue on innovation opportunities and the shaping of strategies to drive industry growth.

Examples of Automate UK's advocacy and support include:

  • Partnering with the PPMA to advocate for policies that promote technological adoption across the packaging and processing industries, with the aims of
    • reducing regulatory barriers
    • enhancing industry competitiveness
  • Working with UKIVA to set vital vision standards for automation systems, ensuring the maintenance of product quality and market reputation
  • Joining BARA in collaborating with regulatory bodies for the shaping of robotics safety and operational standards – ensuring that UK manufacturers comply with evolving safety norms for consumer confidence.

The Power of Partnership

The navigation of government policy and regulation is crucial to the success of the UK’s manufacturing sector. With its three core divisions, Automate UK can make a positive difference in advocating for favourable policies, supporting compliance and driving innovation. It encourages manufacturers to stay informed and engaged for the successful navigation of regulatory changes and the realisation of international growth opportunities.

In sharing expert resources and providing regular networking opportunities it encourages its members to engage with Automate UK and its associations. Through collaboration, the group can influence policies for greater innovation, competitiveness and sustainability in UK manufacturing.