HC Deb 15 January 1986 vol 89 cc586-7W
26. Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the most recent figure for output in manufacturing industry; and how this compares with the figure for the same month six years ago.

Mr. Howard

The index of production for manufacturing industry in the three months up to October 1985 stood at 103, compared to a base of 100 in 1980. This is 3 per cent. lower than for the corresponding period in 1979.

39. Mr. Sean Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the level of investment in manufacturing industry.

Mr. Howard

In 1984, which is the latest year for which complete outturn figures are available, total investment in manufacturing was nearly £6.4 billion at 1980 prices; 16 per cent. above the trough in the last investment cycle downswing which started in 1980. It is expected that the outturn for 1985 will be nearly £6.8 billion at 1980 prices, about 6 per cent. above the level in 1984.