It is vitally important for the SME voice within the medical technology and healthcare market, and the life sciences sector as a whole, to be heard and appreciated.  This is a strong theme from the report which industry and government has recently published and for which an action plan is now getting underway.  As a majority stakeholder in medical manufacturing, the UK SME community plays a vital role in the growth and prosperity of larger businesses with its quick response times, competitive pricing and entrepreneurial spirit.  These qualities have been the impetus for successful collaborations between large and small companies.  An effective NHS will need a successful and innovative industry: industry and the NHS need to work closely in order to realise the real  benefits of effective medical device technologies for patients.  It's these types of business arrangements that drive our economy forward, which is why I am supporting the Voices of Industry campaign.