Business leaders are today discussing the pivotal role which Hampshire and its cities will play in shaping the future prosperity of South-East England.

The Hampshire Economic Partnership, which brings together private and public sector organisations, is holding its second annual conference, at IBM, Hursley, and is assessing the likely impact of the new regional economic strategy devised by South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).

"This conference is a time for taking stock," says HEP chairman Bryan Davies.

"At HEP we have made considerable progress in supporting economic development in Hampshire and its cities. This conference will enable us to review our achievements, refocus where necessary and consider our activities in the light of SEEDA's economic strategy. Mr Davies says that HEP's success in bringing together private and public sector organisations is already creating a major impact at a regional level across a wide spectrum of industry sectors including defence, aerospace, engineering, the rural economy and tourism. In addition, task groups are addressing key issues such as skills, competitiveness, investment and innovation.

He believes that there is a growing recognition that the way forward is by working together in partnership.

"In HEP this sense of partnership has been achieved in a climate of co-operation and understanding, with very few areas of conflict," said Mr Davies.

"I know from my position as a board member of SEEDA that Hampshire is recognised as being vital to the overall future of the South East. Our richness in knowledge-based industries, our research and development facilities, the skills of our people - indeed our ability to make things happen - are all seen as key factors in generating a successful regional economy."

Mr Davies said that at a regional level, the influence of HEP could not be over-emphasised. "I believe that it is increasingly understood that regional action on big issues, is the way forward. Some things simply cannot be tackled on a national basis."

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