Prime Minister's question asked in the House of Commons, by Elliot Morley (Labour). It was answered on Wednesday, 11 November 2009 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Engagements

Question: The news today of the biggest rise in the number of people in employment for 18 months is good. However, in my constituency there have been many job loses, particularly in the steel industry. One company told me that the greatest help that it has received has come from the effects of the fiscal stimulus, public sector investment in building and infrastructure, and training. As we begin to see an improvement in the economy, will my right hon. Friend assure me that he will continue to support manufacturing?

Answer: I agree absolutely with my right hon. Friend that the help that we have been able to give to small businesses, as well as low interest rates, have been vital in helping the Grimsby economy and all economies in this country. I also remind him that 200,000 businesses, including those in Scunthorpe and Grimsby, have benefited from the help that we have given. That would not have been possible, if we had followed the ideas of the Opposition.

Secondary information