Prime Minister's question asked in the House of Commons, by Nicholas Winterton (Conservative). It was answered on Wednesday, 17 March 2010 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Engagements

Question: Macclesfield's economic success has historically been based on manufacturing industry—textiles, pharmaceuticals and aerospace. Does the Prime Minister agree that manufacturing industry is one of the only sources of non-inflationary sustainable economic growth, and that if it is to be competitive and succeed in the future, it needs more regulation, particularly from Europe, and more taxation like it needs a hole in the head?

Answer: We are the sixth biggest manufacturing power in the world. We are expanding in advanced manufacturing, digitalisation and a range of new industries, including aerospace, where we are doing extremely well. It is a vital part of the hon. Gentleman's region. Our capital allowances programme does more for manufacturing than any corporate tax cut proposed by the Conservative party, which would remove funds from manufacturing. Also, the regional development agencies and their commitment to manufacturing are vital to the future of this country, and they should not be abolished.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 507 c874
Session: 2009-10
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Manufacturing industries Privatisation Dover Harbour Board Port of Dover
Link: View this Prime Minister's question on www.publications.parliament.uk