§ 11. Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary concerning prospects for manufacturing industry in Wales, with particular reference to the future of the steel industry. [146531]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI regularly meet the First Minister and discuss a wide range of issues including manufacturing and the steel industry.
The UK steel industry is among the most productive in the world. Each steelworker today is four times more productive than he or she was 20 years ago. Seventy per cent. of steel qualities available today have been developed in the last 10 years to meet increasing demands for stronger, lighter materials. Those are the reasons why, despite its current difficulties, I firmly believe that the UK steel industry has a future in today's knowledge driven economy.
§ 21. Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what meetings he has had with the First Secretary to discuss manufacturing industry in Wales. [146542]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI regularly meet the First Minister and discuss a wide range of issues including manufacturing.
Manufacturing is a key part of the economy. The Government appreciate the difficulties facing manufacturers in some sectors and are supporting them by providing macro-economic stability. Low inflation, low interest rates and sound public finances will help UK manufacturers in the long term.