Regional Minister, Ian Austin, visited Birmingham’s Gem to see behind the scenes in the Jewellery Quarter at traditionally its busiest time of year. On a fact-finding tour, the minister met designers and manufacturers from Birmingham’s famous jewellery industry to hear at first hand how businesses are fairing in the current economic climate.

Austin said: ‘These are difficult times for manufacturing and it is important that we do all we can to help these small businesses in such a niche market’.  The skills on display here in the Jewellery Quarter are unique and must be nurtured and supported.

The minister visited Crescent Silver, James Newman Jewellery and Toye, Kenning & Spencer on Monday 14 December 2009.