This week Jeremy, together with Malcolm Harbour MEP, visited Mec Com, one of Britain's largest manufacturers of specialist electromechanical and electronic components.

The company recently moved from central Stafford to new premises in Hixon.

Richard Bunce, Mec Com's Managing Director explained that the recession has hit the company like almost every manufacturer.

"Sales are well down this year. In addition to lower demand, our customers are destocking. That is inevitable. But we have trimmed our costs and are doing everything possible to ensure that we emerge from the recession in fair shape. Our staff have been amazing in the way that they have worked with us to meet the challenges."

When asked by Jeremy what were the main problems the company faced - apart from the decline in sales - Mr Bunce cited the increased cost of credit insurance. He also quesitoned why the UK government did not follow the practice in France, the Netherlands and Germany and provide temporary support for short-time workin so as to keep key staff in place.

Jeremy said: "Mr Bunce's concerns echo those of the Engineering Employers Federation (EEF)which has called both for more flexible support for short-time working for a limited period, linked to training, and for measures to underwrite trade credit.