Southampton hoping to attract marine jobs
31/07/2008(15:12)
The city of Southampton is vying to be the home of the future Marine Management Organisation (MMO).
A coalition of politicians, local companies and the trade group Business Southampton are pitching for the government department to be based in the city.
The Southern Daily Echo reports that the group claims Southampton is the "natural" home for the marine department, which could create up to 400 jobs for the city if the bid is given approval.
Alan Whitehead, MP for Southampton West, told the newspaper that it is "vital" that the MMO is based in an area with the necessary "infrastructure and expertise".
"Both in terms of our position on the south coast and with our strong skills base, it is a natural fit. We are putting Southampton's credentials on the table at an early stage."
Plans were recently revealed to transform Cumbria's western shores into an "energy coast" under a new plan which could create up to 16,000 jobs.
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