The Secretary of State for Defence was in the heart of Taunton yesterday (29) to visit a thriving local company specialising in the production of high-tech products. Together with prospective MP Rebecca Pow, Michael Fallon met staff and employees at ExoTec Precision, an advanced engineering company supplying products for use in the defence, and aerospace industries.

After undertaking a tour of the firm’s premises, where the Defence Secretary was able to witness first-hand the precision manufacturing processes and meet highly skilled staff, he was left truly impressed by the quality of the products.

Michael Fallon said: "It was a pleasure to visit ExoTec Precision and to see the world class engineering products it delivers for the space, defence, optics and nuclear sectors. This is a growing business and one I am keen to encourage to do more in the UK defence sector.

"Rebecca Pow is championing the setting up of a Taunton centre for technology on the Tallis site on Liseux Way working in conjunction with Taunton Deane Council. The site  already houses SW Pathology Services and GSI ExoTec Precision by  and the aim is to attract other similar  innovative firms. Rebecca  has already secured crucial funding for local road and motorway junction upgrades in a joint initiative which are essential if new businesses are to come to the area making the technology centre a reality.  All that would be at risk unless Rebecca is elected on 7 May as part of a majority Conservative government in power."

Rebecca praised the firm, highlighting that it has been a success story for the local area, having grown by a third over the last two years. Exotec Precision now employs over 50 people and has plans to expand further with a new business premises and more staff.

Rebecca said: “GSI ExoTec Precision is an outstanding example of a high tech manufacturing company located  in Taunton Deane with a much valued skilled workforce. Their mirrors are used in satellites and scanners around the world and their beryllium products are highly sought for both the nuclear and defence industries.  

“I was delighted to introduce the Secretary of State to GSI and I am hopeful that they can take advantage of the Conservative government’s drive to increase the use of small firms like this through our Small Business Research Fund and the Defence Growth Partnership - and I would like to help facilitate this. Should I become elected on May 7th, I will be working to help forge new business links for this company and also to help build on this base to attract more high-tech industry to the area.”

Rebecca Pow also sought assurance from the Minister regarding the future of the UKHO in Taunton and received an overwhelmingly positive response.

Mr Fallon said: ‘"The UKHO is a world leading hydrographic office and it is important that its estate is modernised to ensure it retains that pre-eminent position. I want Taunton to remain home to UKHO and its excellent workforce for the long term."

‘I was  delighted that the Defence Secretary re-affirmed the prominence of this internationally important business and gave his absolute assurance regarding its importance to Taunton.’