HC Deb 13 February 1985 vol 73 c209W
33. Mrs. McCurley

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied that the manufacturing base in Scotland is being maintained.

Mr. Allan Stewart

The nature of Scotland's manufacturing base has been changing, and I am satisfied that the newer industries will provide the basis for future growth. Manufacturing output in the first half of 1984 was 5 per cent. up on the first half of 1983, while output per employee also continued to increase. The latest CBI and Scottish business surveys suggest that the recovery in manufacturing continued in the second half of 1984, with business confidence, orders and output all reported to be increasing.

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