HC Deb 19 July 1989 vol 157 cc219-20W
29. Mr. Knox

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what is the most recent figure for output in manufacturing industry; and what was the figure for the same month in 1973.

Mr. Atkins

In May 1989 manufacturing output was at a level of 119.0, based on 1985 equal to 100. This is 9 per cent. more than the level of 109.1 for May 1973. But my hon. Friend will appreciate that monthly data can be erratic. A firmer based comparison would be in the three months to May 1989 manufacturing output was 8 per cent. higher than in the same period in 1973.