asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is satisfied with the growth of manufacturing output in the United Kingdom economy in the first four months of 1978.

Figures published today by the CSO show that manufacturing output rose 1 per cent. between the fourth quarter of 1977 and the first quarter of 1978. Figures for April will be published next month. This resumption in growth, taken with the trade figures for the first four months of 1978, are consistent with the Government's strategy of a steady improvement in the economy.