Farron calls for Furness Line electrification and more broadband spending from govt

At today's Cumbria Manufacturing day South Lakes MP Tim Farron praised local businesses like Gilkes, Croppers and GSK for 'leading the economic recovery' in our area and called on the government to help these businesses by spending more on local infrastructure.

Tim raised a list of areas that the government invest to help further unlock the local economy. Tim asked Business Minister Michael Fallon MP to look at the need for investment in a northern development route around Kendal and electrification of the Furness line.

Tim also asked for more support and investment for rural broadband schemes to make sure residents and businesses get super-fast broadband. Tim said he was 'heartened' by the Ministers reply, especially on the electrification of the Furness Line.

He also highlighted the successful bid, supported by Tim, for Kendal College to be given £2 million to create a hi-tech hub for engineering students.

Tim said: "It was great to invite local manufacturing businesses down to Westminster to meet with Ministers. I pressed the need for government to give these businesses the help and support they need to grow. I wanted government to see that Cumbria also makes things and that we need manufacturing jobs to grow our economy.

"I also pressed the case that if we are to attract further investment, then we need more infrastructure spending - especially on the Northern Relief Road in Kendal and the electrification of the Furness Line. These projects will boost our economy and allow local businesses to thrive. I was pleased with the reply I got from the Minister and I will be following this up to continue to press the case."