This seminar will focus on the emergence of a 'new economy', based – among others – on high value services, digital media, biotechnology and other science-based industries. Using evidence from the esep labour market service and other sources, John Lord's presentation will review the nature of structural change in the Programme area in the past decade, focusing on key industry clusters. Among the themes to be discussed are: regional strengths and competitive advantage; lagging sectors; the role of cities as drivers of change; skills gaps and shortages.

Ron Botham is Professor of Entrepreneurship and Regional Development at the University of Glasgow. He is a renowned authority on industry clusters, and has acted as an adviser to the Department of Trade and Industry. Professor Botham will provide an expert commentary on the issues raised in the presentation, and identify issues and challenges for public sector bodies and policy makers. Following a panel discussion, esep's Programme Director, Gordon McLaren, will summarise the key messages from the day and highlight opportunities to use European funding to promote change and modernisation in the East of Scotland economy.

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