HC Deb 23 January 1978 vol 942 cc429-30W
37. Mr. David Price

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what is his current estimate of the rate of expansion of production by British manufacturing industry throughout 1978.

Treasury's Press release on 26th October

Mr. Alan Williams

As indicated in the last, an increase in the volume of manufacturing production of some 3½ per cent. is expected between the second half of 1977 and the second half of 1978.

39. Mr. Kenneth Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what plans he has to increase industrial output and performance, particularly export performance.

Mr. Alan Williams

Improving industrial performance and international competitiveness is the central aim of the Government's industrial strategy and of the work going on under the auspices of the National Economic Development Council. My policies, and those of the Government in general, are all designed to achieve this objective.