HC Deb 08 April 1998 vol 310 cc353-4W
Mr. Nicholas Winterton

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what assessment she has made of the effects of the strength of sterling on the competitiveness of the paper industry. [38527]

Mrs. Beckett

The Government clearly understand the worries of exporters and manufacturers in the paper industry and elsewhere at the rise in the pound. However, we are determined not to pursue policies leading to cycles of boom-bust. That is why the Government have taken the necessary decisions to secure a long-term economic framework, based on low inflation and sustainable public finances which will deliver a stable and competitive pound.