The first Lord Nelson of Stafford lecture. Export competitiveness: a factor of management and/or design

The paper presents the reasons for the apparent decline of Britain´s manufacturing industry, and emphasises the seriousness of this problem. The fact that many of the UK´s imports are in the high-technology area is discussed; the motor-car and electrical goods industries are cited as particular examples. Steps taken to improve the competitiveness in the UK manufacturing industry are reported, and it is concluded that there is no lack of advice given to Government, industry and public bodies. Some important areas where action must be taken are outlined in two main Sections, which discuss factors inside and outside the control of industry, respectively. The paper concludes that, for Britain´s place in the world market to be restored, changes must be initiated in the areas of marketing, design, development and manufacture, even though it is possible that personnel, finance and management will suffer. Furthermore, Government should create the right climate for these changes, but it is industry´s task to make the correct decisions.