Commenting on the manufacturing output figures for November 2009, published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“These figures were weaker than expected. Manufacturing’s inability to show any growth for the second month in a row in November is disappointing, and it increases concerns that a return to economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2009 is not guaranteed.
“A manufacturing recovery is vital in order to secure the much-needed rebalancing of the UK’s economy towards exports and investment. Our latest Quarterly Economic Survey showed that manufacturers are starting to export more as global demand returns. But to underpin these trends, the sector must be supported, access to finance improved, and steps taken to enable firms to preserve their skills base. We expect the Government to address these issues without delay.”
For further information please contact the BCC press office on 020 7654 5813 or 07825 746812.
