§ Mr. Canavanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether there had been any signs indicating an improved outlook for the economy since his Budget Statement.
§ Mr. BrittanThere have been several signs indicating an improved outlook since the Budget. Interest rates have fallen further; inflation fell in February; this year's further slowdown in the increase in unemployment has been confirmed; company profits rose further in the final quarter of last year, and the latest CBI monthly trends inquiry points to improving business prospects.