HC Deb 26 October 1994 vol 248 cc720-1W
28. Mr. Canavan

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the Scottish economy.

Mr. Stewart

The Scottish economy is advancing on a broad front. Output is increasing across a range of sectors and exports are at a record level. Unemployment has been falling and the September level was the lowest for three years. The latest business survey evidence points to continued confidence in virtually all sectors and to increasing investment expectations on the part of manufacturers. Business forecasts predict continuing steady growth this year and next. These positive trends are greatly to be welcomed and amply demonstrate the success of the Government's policies for the economy.