§ Mr. Wattsasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the contribution to the British economy of foreign-owned British companies in terms of investment and the provision of employment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe contribution is significant. Available statistics relate to manufacturing industry only. The most recent figures are for 1982. Foreign-owned enterprises were only 2.27 per cent. of all enterprises, yet their capital expenditure represented 24.7 per cent. of the total and they provided 14.7 per cent. of total employment. Capital expenditure per employee in foreign-owned companies was nearly double that in United Kingdom-owned companies. These figures clearly illustrate the important role played by foreign-owned companies in our economy. The Government will continue to encourage beneficial inward investment into the United Kingdom.