A more prosperous, fairer and greener Britain

Today we are taking a key step on the road to a more prosperous, fairer and greener Britain. We've announced support for wind turbine manufacture at Britain's ports - opening the way to a major expansion of the country's offshore wind industry.

The last week has been tough. None of us came into government to make cuts. Throughout the spending review, as Liberal Democrats and as a Government, we've had to make some difficult decisions. We believe they are necessary to stabilise Britain's economy and eliminate the massive deficit in the public finances.

As Liberal Democrats in Government we can set the course for economic recovery - encouraging green growth as we move to create a truly sustainable low-carbon economy. The Coalition Government is working on our plans for a Green Investment Bank, we're investing £1 billion in the first carbon capture and storage demonstration project and investing more than £800 million in renewable heat. And we will be implementing Liberal Democrat plans for a Green Deal to ensure energy saving in every home - cutting energy, cutting carbon emissions and cutting energy costs for families - as well as creating jobs around the country.

We need world-class infrastructure to support our economic growth. Even in the face of such pressure on public finances, we will prioritise the areas that will help us dump the deficit and bring low-carbon jobs, manufacturing and skills to the UK.

So today we have committed £60 million to support offshore wind manufacturing infrastructure at port sites. I am delighted that three global firms - GE, Siemens and Gamesa - have responded by outlining proposals to invest hundreds of millions of pounds in opening new wind turbine factories in the UK, creating thousands of jobs and providing clean energy for Britain's homes and factories.

Working with Nick Clegg, Vince Cable and Danny Alexander on the green recovery has reminded me of the difference Liberal Democrats are making in Government. There is much more to do but I am determined that we will deliver on our pledge to make this the greenest government ever.