Economic and Unemployment Forecasts

HC Deb 21 June 1979 vol 968 cc675-6W

Mr. Cryer

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will introduce legislation requiring the publication of economic forecasts, including unemployment levels, provided by his Department.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

The 1975 Industry Act, schedule 5, requires the Treasury to publish twice-yearly economic forecasts. The forecast in the 1979 Financial Statement and Budget Report met the requirement of that Act. On unemployment forecasts, I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave yesterday to the hon. Member for West Stirlingshire (Mr. Canavan).

Mr. Heffer

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what forecasts he has made of future unemployment; and if he will publish such forecasts.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will publish in the Official Report his forecast of unemployment trends in maufacturing industry over the next 12 months.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

I refer the hon. Members to the reply yesterday to the hon. Member for West Stirlingshire (Mr. Canavan).