HC Deb 21 June 1989 vol 155 c180W
80. Mr. Wood

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what are the latest figures he has for the productivity of manufacturing industry; and what were the comparable figures one year ago.

Mr. Atkins

In the three months to April 1989 manufacturing productivity, as measured by output per person employed, was at a level of 119.3, based on 1985 equal to 100. This is six per cent. more than the level of 112.5 for the first quarter of 1988.

95. 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 April 1989 manufacturing output was at a level of 118.5, based on 1985 equal to 100. This is 81 per cent. more than the level of 108.8 for April 1973. But my hon. Friend will appreciate that monthly data can be erratic. A firmer based comparison would he that in the three months to April 1989 manufacturing output was 9½ per cent. higher than in the same period in 1973. Manufacturing output is now at is highest ever level.