Britain is leading Europe when it comes to attracting foreign IT investment,
the government claimed today.
Figures released by the
Department
of Trade and Industry suggest that the UK is second only to the US in
attracting investors, and that the number of new computer software and services
jobs is up 82 per cent on last year.
Sir Digby Jones, Minister for Trade and Investment, said: "The flexibility of
British business is a key strength, but we face tough competition and cannot be
complacent.
"This year's growth in financial and business services will boost the UK's
knowledge economy, while increased investments in life sciences, software and
computer services and ICT will bring added innovation and creativity to our
skills base, helping to maintain our competitive edge."
Overall investment rose 17 per cent on last year, following 1,431 new
projects started by foreign investors. This accounted for over 36,000 new jobs
and over 400,000 being safeguarded.
"Over the next decade our economy is expected to grow by roughly 25 per cent,
while China and India will triple the size of their economies and boast over 40
per cent of world growth," said Foreign Secretary David Miliband.
"These are compelling statistics which we ignore at our peril, and underline
the significant potential for targeted UK engagement in these markets."
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