Clegg launches sixth round of RGF

DEPUTY prime minister Nick Clegg has launched the £200m sixth round of the Regional Growth Fund.

Around £460m has gone to North West companies from the first five rounds of the fund which is designed to support business growth and create jobs.

Beneficiaries include Knowsley-based electrical cable manufacturer Tratos, Liverpool’s Glen Dimplex Home Appliances and Oldham-based plastic moulding firm Patterson and Rothwell.

Mr Clegg, who attended the Manufacturing Summit in New Brighton on Thursday, said: “The Regional Growth Fund is a helping hand from Government to create thousands of jobs that last, boost the private sector and rebalance the economy.

“I’ve seen first hand at electrical cable manufacturer Tratos in Merseyside how the fund is supporting businesses that are working hard to fuel our recovery and help us build a stronger economy.

“I would encourage any businesses that can generate significant private sector investment and sustainable jobs to bid for a share of the £200m available from the fund.”

Round six will be open to private sector bidders seeking £1m or more.