The joint print and photo imaging bid failed to make the governments six-strong trailblazer shortlist because it had "too small a footprint", according to PGC NTO chief executive Richard Beamish.

But the Sector Skills Development Agency said the publishing industry would be a suitable partner to create a larger SSC, according to BPIF commercial director Andy Brown, as it would bring the graphics industries together.

"It takes two to tango," said Brown. "We would both have to be comfortable." The paper industry will be part of the Process and Manufacturing SSC.

Beamish said the initial proposal had been well received by the government and that Ken Baillie, a consultant to both the PGC NTO and Photo Imaging NTO, would attend a seminar on Monday (28 January), which is only open to sectors that have a chance of progressing their plans quickly.

Financial aid up to 20,000 is also available during this financial year to research and prepare a formal proposal.

Story by Gordon Carson