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| Stoke represents the region’s ceramics |
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Stoke-on-Trent City Council took the lead in presenting ‘UNIC’ – Urban Network for Innovation in Ceramics, a ‘Fast Track’ European project focusing on innovation in the ceramics industry - in the European Parliament in Brussels on 18th November, to a high-level European audience including representatives from the European Commission, MEPs and members of the ceramics industry across the EU. “Building a successful future for the ceramics industry is critical for Stoke-on-Trent”, said Tom Macartney, acting City Council Chief Executive. “However we need to support our European ceramics partners to ensure that European policy makers continue to recognise that this industry is playing a major role in transforming our economy towards high level knowledge and innovation. Future policies and funding are required to maintain this. Our presence at this meeting was an opportunity to showcase what we do best.” The meeting was steered by the European Parliament ceramics forum chair and vice chair, and West Midlands MEPs, Malcolm Harbour and Michael Cashman, who articulately demonstrated the importance of a growing and powerful voice for the European ceramics industry when faced with numerous trade and internal market challenges. West Midlands MEP Liz Lynne also attended to give support to such a uniquely West Midlands focussed event. West Midlands in Europe provided organisational and profile support to Stoke-on Trent City Council ensuring wide awareness across Brussels for this high-level event.
For further information, please contact Rachel Nicholson, Economic Development & European Officer, Stoke-on-Trent City Council rachel.nicholson@stoke.gov.uk and Sophie Lainé, European Policy Adviser, West Midlands in Europe sophie.laine@westmidlandsineurope.eu
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