New technology

In this global age, competition in many sectors is not simply local and it will be essential to access the latest cutting-edge developments.

There are already concerns Britain has been too slow to roll out internet technology. One survey put Britain only midway in access to the internet in more than 60 countries and Yorkshire suffers from some of the lowest rates of internet connection in the country.

Some parts of the region are showing the benefits of new technology following local initiatives.

South Yorkshire is well ahead of the rest of the world thanks to its Digital Region project, leading to investment likened in its impact to the building of new roads or railways.

Businesses in North Yorkshire are also similarly benefiting from NYnet which is bringing superfast broadband to the remotest rural communities. The connection has played an important role in attracting businesses to the area and in Scarborough's accolade as the ''most enterprising town'' in Europe.

It is crucial this investment continues. The new Government's emergency Budget should include measures to make investment in broadband, and other technology, more affordable, particularly for smaller businesses. The route out of recession remains perilous but help from Ministers will pay immediate dividends.