Cambridge English Exams
C1 Advanced Essay Writing: Supporting Local Growth
Example Exam Task
You attended a meeting at the town hall to discuss which businesses should be given tax incentives to come and open in the town. You have made the notes below:
Which businesses should be given tax incentives to open here?
- New supermarket
- Heavy industry
- Modern IT companies
Some opinions expressed during the meeting:
- ‘Do we have people who can work in IT companies?’
- ‘Let’s not give incentives to those who would pollute!’
- ‘What we don’t need is yet another shop!’
Write an essay, discussing two of the companies in your notes. You should explain which company would help the local economy most, giving reasons in support of your answer.
You may, if you wish, make use of the opinions expressed in the meeting, but you should use your own words as far as possible.
Example Essay
Deciding which businesses should receive tax incentives to establish themselves in a town is a complex issue, as such decisions can shape the local economy for years to come. During the town hall meeting, several options were discussed, including attracting a new supermarket, heavy industry, or modern IT companies. This essay will consider heavy industry and modern IT companies, arguing that the latter would bring greater long-term benefits to the local economy.
On the one hand, heavy industry has traditionally been associated with job creation, particularly for workers without advanced qualifications. A large industrial employer could reduce unemployment and stimulate demand for local services. However, as some participants rightly pointed out, such industries often have a negative environmental impact. Pollution, increased traffic and long-term health risks could ultimately outweigh the short-term economic gains, making heavy industry a less sustainable option.
Modern IT companies, by contrast, offer a more future-oriented alternative. Although concerns were raised about whether the town has a sufficiently skilled workforce, attracting IT firms could encourage investment in education and training. Moreover, jobs in the technology sector tend to be well paid, which increases local spending and boosts tax revenues in the long run. IT companies also have a relatively low environmental footprint compared to heavy industry, aligning with the growing emphasis on sustainable development and EU environmental policy.
In conclusion, while heavy industry may provide immediate employment opportunities, modern IT companies would contribute more effectively to long-term economic growth. By offering tax incentives to innovative and environmentally responsible businesses, the town can create a dynamic economy that benefits both current residents and future generations.
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