HC Deb 30 June 1966 vol 730 cc335-6W
Mr. Biffen

asked the Minister of Technology how the net new export order index for the engineering industry in 1965 compares with the preceding year; and what approximate share of total United Kingdom exports is covered by this index.

Mr. Cousins

The index of the volume of net new export orders for the engineering industries was 3½ per cent. lower in 1965 than in 1964. The products of the industries covered by this index, mechanical and electrical engineering, wheeled tractors, locomotives and rolling stock and heavy commercial vehicles, are estimated to have accounted for more than a quarter of total United Kingdom exports in 1965.