THE Unite union has said the G7 summit must be ‘a springboard’ for Cornwall’s economic revival.

The union has accused central Government of “years of neglect” and that Cornwall, with 17 of the most deprived wards in the country, had been badly hit by what it described as a lack of government support for the coronavirus-hit tourist economy and the shortfall in funding for local government.

The G7 summit of the leaders of the world’s top economies at the scenic Carbis Bay is ‘a unique opportunity’ to develop an economic template for the country’s development.

Since the pandemic started, Unite has highlighted a roll-call of job losses that have included those at Cornwall Council, Cornwall Airport, St Austell Brewery, the Eden Project and PALL Aerospace.

Unite regional officer Deborah Hopkins said: “The news that the G7 summit is going to be held at Carbis Bay is very welcome, after a dreadful year for the Cornish economy when the pandemic shortened the vital holiday season.

“Already Cornwall Airport is excited as it will provide the aviation logistics for the summit, and our hardworking members at the airport are celebrating at the announcement and keen to get going as soon as possible. Visit Cornwall has estimated that it will generate £50 million.

“But the summit should not be seen as a ‘one-off’ event after the world leaders and their entourages depart, instead it must be used as a springboard for an economic blueprint for the next decade.

“It presents a unique opportunity to focus on Cornwall’s future and what it means for our young people seeking work and an affordable place to live, given the plethora of expensive second homes.

“For too long, Cornwall has been regarded as a backwater by ministers.

“We started the pandemic with 17 of the most deprived wards in the country and the working people of Cornwall continue to suffer poverty, hunger and overwhelming anxiety in terms of job security and income generation.

“We are fighting to protect our members, who face the loss of jobs, as the pandemic still ravages our key sectors, particularly in food and drink, and hospitality that are the lifeblood of Cornwall’s economy.”