§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the economic situation in the manufacturing sector(a) in the West Midlands region and (b) in the United Kingdom; and what steps he is taking to encourage growth in the sector. [85135]
§ Ms HewittRecent surveys have shown an improvement in confidence among manufacturers across the country and there is a widespread consensus that manufacturing output will strengthen into 2000. The Government believe that the best way they can support all sectors of business is by delivering long-term stability—based on low inflation and sound public finances—and by working with business to help improve Britain's productivity performance.