HC Deb 09 February 1984 vol 53 c726W
26. Mr. Michael Morris

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what evidence he has that consumer demand can be maintained at present levels.

Mr. Lawson

The volume of consumer spending rose 1 per cent. in the fourth quarter of 1983 to a level 3 per cent. higher than a year earlier. This confirms the continued buoyancy of consumer demand—as predicted in my autumn statement forecast. With firm prospects of low inflation and rising real personal incomes we can expect further increases in consumers' expenditure.