HC Deb 14 February 2002 vol 380 c517W
12. Derek Twigg

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the chemicals industry in the north-west of England. [33803]

Mr. Wilson

The chemical sector forms one of the north-west region's most important clusters. It accounts for 22 per cent. of the UK chemical industry. It contains the highest concentration in the country of the faster growing speciality and fine chemicals companies, supplying new markets such as electronics, pharmaceuticals and consumer products.