HC Deb 22 March 2001 vol 365 c303W
22. Mr. Derek Twigg

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on prospects for the chemical industry. [153653]

Mr. Alan Johnson

The chemicals industry has consistently outpaced the growth in the economy overall. Forecasts suggest that this pattern will continue for the foreseeable future. The industry does, however, face significant pressures on restructuring, performance and innovation to meet rapidly changing global challenges. The Government will continue to do what they can to help the industry meet those challenges.