As the UK embarks on its quest to become a true ‘Science Superpower’ at the forefront of the Green Revolution, Norfolk (and the East) will play a leading role in the science and innovation required to make that happen – bringing thousands of exciting new jobs of tomorrow, growth and prosperity which, alongside the advances being made, will improve the lives of us ALL.

The ‘jewel in our crown’ is the Norwich Research Park – which I have long supported and advocated for, and which I believe, in the years to come, will see more and more companies spin-out from it and set up in the towns and villages around it – especially in what I call the Norfolk Research Triangle: the area between Dereham-Norwich-Wymondham/Attleborough. 

That’s why I was delighted to visit the NRP again this past Friday for a busy day of events:

• Meeting Dr Pete Jackson, the new Non-executive Chair of the Anglia Innovation Partnership LLP (which runs the Research Park), to talk all things NRP.

• Meeting David Parfrey, the Chief Executive of the Anglia Innovation Partnership LLP, and others on the Board to catch up and hear more about the great work being done on the Park.

• Speaking to an audience of NRP staff, NRP associated businesses, local councilors and NRP key collaborators about my work as Co-Chair of the Prime Minister’s Taskforce for Innovation, Growth and Regulatory Reform and how many of our Taskforce’s recommendations can boost science and innovation in the UK.

• Participated in an excellent panel discussion titled “Future of Business in East Anglia” with Chris Sargisson (CEO of Norfolk Chambers), Chris Starkie (CEO of the New Anglia LEP) and Dr Pete Jackson – also answering questions from our brilliant audience.

It truly is an exciting time at the NRP – and for Norfolk and the East more generally. I look forward to continuing to do all I can to support the NRP, and speaking up for science and innovation in our part of the world, in the weeks and months ahead.