The prime minister, Keir Starmer, met senior officers of the Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) on the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow.

Graham Chisnall, chairman, and Alan Fisher, CEO, were able to talk to Sir Keir Starmer about their members’ companies. They also welcomed the PM’s announcement of Skills England, a new public body that will bring together central and local government, businesses, training providers and unions to address the nation’s skills needs.

Chisnall said: “We had previously urged the new government to focus on innovation and skills. So we were pleased to hear of the emphasis that they are placing on skills with the launch a new public body.

“Our members in the aerospace, aviation, defence and space sectors – as well as their supply chains – are often frustrated by the lack of workers with the right skills. The teaching of STEM subjects and proper training is crucial in ensuring that the UK remains world leaders in aerospace and related areas.

“We represent a large number of key businesses – from multi-nationals to SMEs – and they are the backbone of the economy and are just the types of companies that will drive growth.

“By visiting the airshow the prime minister has signalled that he understands the importance of the sectors we represent. Billions of pounds worth of business will be done this week and we are working with our members to ensure they benefit as much as possible.”

Fisher added: “FAC’s objectives include lobbying the government on their behalf  of our members and introducing them to the multi-national global players, Farnborough International Airshow gives us an opportunity to do just that and there is a really positive atmosphere this year.”

www.fac.org.uk