§ 26. Mr. Flanneryasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the current level of investment in manufacturing industry.
§ Mr. PattieInvestment in manufacturing rose by nearly 6 per cent. in 1985, and was 25 per cent. higher than in 1983; further growth is expected for 1986. The underlying determinants of manufacturing investment—continuing growth in the economy, buoyant profits, improved profitability and a low rate of inflation — remain favourable.
§ 28. Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he next intends to meet the Trades Union Congress to discuss investment in manufacturing industry.
§ Mr. PattieMy right hon. Friend meets the TUC regularly at the National Economic Development Council, where matters relevant to improving the United Kingdom's industrial performance are discussed. He has no plans for a separate meeting on this subject.