WEEKLY COLUMN by South Cotswolds MP Dr Roz Savage 

Supporting economically and environmentally sustainable local businesses matters enormously to me.

These businesses provide the wealth creation and job opportunities that enable our communities to prosper.

With so much economic doom and gloom, the recent shocking news of the Dyson redundancies, and the government repeatedly telling us there is no money, I wanted assess the health of our local economy, and hopefully bring some light from the darkness.

So I have been out and about this week visiting local companies, and am delighted to report that we have inspirational success stories right here on our doorstep in the South Cotswolds.

ZeroAvia and Vertical Aerospace are two pioneering companies at the forefront of aviation technology.

Both are based at Cotswold Airport. ZeroAvia is making remarkable strides in developing hydrogen-electric engines, which promise to revolutionise sustainable air travel, while Vertical Aerospace is pushing the boundaries with their super-cool, cutting-edge electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

These companies are not only innovating but also contributing by creating high-skilled local jobs.

At Resource Group I met the apprentice aircraft mechanics going through their training.

It was great to see the dedication and enthusiasm of these bright young people as they start their careers in the aerospace industry – and also reassuring to find out about the very high standards demanded of them, given that lives depend on their attention to detail.

Apprenticeships were championed by my Lib Dem colleague Sir Vince Cable, and offer a fantastic and well-rewarded career path, without incurring the debts faced by university students.

We really need to encourage more young people to view skilled manual work as every bit as attractive as the digital or financial sectors.

At Air Salvage International, CEO Mark Gregory showed me the impressive processes involved in the end-of-life management of aircraft.

This company plays a crucial role in recycling and repurposing aircraft materials, aligning with my goals for sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Their work ensures that every last recyclable piece is reclaimed, avoiding the waste of valuable, finite resources.

My visit to Sweetnam and Bradley in Malmesbury was equally inspiring.

Malmesbury residents might know this company as the home of the bronze chimpanzees, Adysa, Annissa and Cassie.

I met with skilled sheet metal workers and was struck by the loyalty and long tenures of their staff.

Their dedication is matched by the enthusiasm of their CEO, Christian Olejnik, who has fostered a supportive and dynamic work environment.

This company exemplifies how business can do well while doing good through a strong commitment to both local communities and the wellbeing of their staff, and I’d like to see this philosophy being adopted by more companies.

Reflecting on these visits, it is clear that the South Cotswolds is home to many thriving businesses that are making significant contributions to innovation and sustainability.

As your MP, I am wholeheartedly committed to supporting business and ensuring that the South Cotswolds remains a hub of innovation, sustainability and opportunity.

Together, we can continue build a resilient and prosperous future for us all.