Britain has benefited from that global system over a long period of time. But we cannot afford to rely on history or sentiment if we are to earn our living. We cannot take it for granted that markets will remain open to our businesses, or that our businesses will always be able to take full advantage of the opportunities that exist. Government can help. The role of Government is to provide the conditions for private sector growth and investment, to use all the levers it has to break down barriers faced by industry both at home and abroad, and to promote a strong and credible global trading.
