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agenda


State of the nation

In a candid interview, the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Dr Vince Cable, shares his views on emerging markets, the economy and the need for SMEs to venture overseas

Q. Where do you see the UK’s place in the world of business and how influential are we on the world’s business stage?

A. The UK remains an important country. It has one of the largest economies, and still has one of the biggest manufacturing sectors. It also retains its position as a world leader in many sectors, including creative industries, business and professional services, aerospace and pharmaceuticals. We still wield influence on the world stage, not least through organisations such as the EU, G7 and G20.