Attacking the recession - discussion report launched

Today we call on the Government to take bold action to deliver a ‘new economic deal’ for the UK by committing to long-term infrastructure and investment to regenerate the UK’s economy.

‘Attacking the Recession’, takes a comprehensive look at how the UK could innovate out of a recession.  The report is co-authored by Charlie Leadbeater, author of We-Think and NESTA Visiting Fellow, and James Meadway, with contributions from several colleagues throught NESTA Policy and Research Unit.

We will be presenting the report tonight (4th December) to Lord Drayson, Minister for Science and Innovation, at a panel event which will include lastminute.com entrepreneur Brent Hoberman.

You can follow a live webcast Thursday 4th December 5:30pm of the event here.

The report urges the Government to focus on setting long-term goals to rebuild the economy beyond the short-term fiscal stimulus of the Pre-Budget Report. 

Some of the key recommendations in the report:

• The roll out of £15 billion ultra-fast broadband network to enable people to be better connected to the job market;
• A £1 billion early stage fund for innovative technology ventures
• A national economic strategy to establish and grow dynamic high-potential sectors like low-carbon technologies and healthcare
• An innovative approach to public services including setting up social and business networks to help the unemployed find work, and foster entrepreneurship;

The report argues that the recession will provide an opportunity not just for economic growth, but also for addressing the major social challenges ahead. For example, investing in environmental technologies could generate £12 billion in revenues to the by 2020 and connecting the UK to high speed broadband would benefit businesses and the unemployed by staying in touch with new opportunities for work.

Let us know what you think, either in the comments, or via twitter @innovationedge.