Jeremy Lefroy and local Conservative MEP Malcolm Harbour launched Hixon firm Mec Com’s new laser cutting technology at a special ceremony on February 6th.

Malcom Harbour, one of the few engineers in the European Parliament, is Chairman of the European Manufacturing Forum and a big supporter of Staffordshire’s manufacturing industry.

Malcolm said: “This £300,000 investment in the very latest laser cutting technology shows that manufacturing has a long-term future in the region and I congratulate Mec Com on their bold decision in this difficult environment. But manufacturing must also be respected by politicians in Westminster. The next Conservative government will act as a champion for British manufacturing."

Mec Com’s managing director, Richard Bunce, said: “Since they first visited us last year, I have been impressed with Malcolm and Jeremy’s commitment to local manufacturing so I was pleased that they came back. We have found the last year difficult but our fantastic workforce has ensured that we are coming through. This investment shows that we are determined to build on our reputation for quality and innovation.”

Jeremy Lefroy said “Mec Com’s vote of confidence is a great boost to Stafford constituency. We need to match his commitment by stepping up our education and training to ensure that local people have the skills needed by Mec Com and other next generation manufacturers.”