The Chief Secretary to the Treasury, the Rt. Honourable Liz Truss MP visited Northumberland on Thursday in a tour showcasing the county's economic contribution. The businesses on display included AkzoNobel in Ashington which is a multinational business that produces Dulux paint, and Xtralite in Blyth who are leading the way on developing rooflight technology from their hub in the Kitty Brewster industrial estate.

At AkzoNobel, Liz was given a tour of the factory by site manager Jeff Hope where she learned about the new technology which features in the company's new £150 million Ashington plant. As well as producing paint for the British and European market, the Ashington plant is also home to a brand new 'Dulux Academy' which trains local people to become painters and decorators.

In Blyth, Liz saw first hand how a local business is leading the way on developing innovative technologies for an international market. She was joined at Xtralite by Northumberland Conservatves' first Blyth Town Councillor Daniel Carr and campaigner Ian Levy.

Commenting on the visit, Liz said: "I am really impressed by the craftsmanship and innovation I've seen on display at Xtralite. While the Labour Party in Northumberland spend their time talking down the county, it’s fantastic to see hardworking businesses and their employees defying the critics and giving Northumberland something positive to shout about.

"By backing free enterprise, investing in infrastructure and giving people the skills they need, we're supporting the North East economy which is so vital to our country's success."