Some evidence of regional variations in the introduction and diffusion of industrial products and processes within British manufacturing industry

Abstract

Thwaites A. T. (1982) Some evidence of regional variations in the introduction and diffusion of industrial products and processes within British manufacturing industry, Reg. Studies 16, 371–81. In the present economic circumstances the traditional instruments of regional aid; public expenditure, job transfer and mobile industry are greatly constrained, which thrusts greater responsibility upon industry indigenous to each area to preserve and to create employment—self-sustained economic growth. Any concept of the mobilization of this regional potential must incorporate a technological dimension. If any region lags in the production or adoption of new technology within its manufacturing industries then in the longer term it must face industrial decline. Evidence of regional performance in the production and adoption of new products and processes together with research and development effort is provided from two establishment-based surveys of manufacturing industry in Great Britain. The conclusion is reached that the indigenous enterprises in Development Areas face particular problems of development which may only be resolved through a micro-approach to policy delivery.