§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Prime Minister whether he will publish in the Official Report or place in the Library the detailed facts and figures upon which he based his statement made on 2nd 67W July for the improvements in the economic situation and the advances which are certain to happen in the next year or two.
§ The Prime MinisterThese include the oil production statistics, which show that production is running at an annual rate of nearly half of national consumption; the Department of Industry survey of investment intentions, which indicates that investment in manufacturing industries is expected to be 20 per cent. higher in 1978 than in 1977; the balance of payments statistics, which show the recent return of the current balance to surplus; and financial statistics, which show record official reserves, the reduction of Minimum Lending Rate from 15 per cent. to 8 per cent. and the stabilisation of the exchange rate.