asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the percentage increase in national productivity, defined as output per person employed over the economy as a whole, between 1973 and 1977, and for each of the six previous four-year periods, viz, 1969–73, 1965–69, 1961–65, 1957–61, 1953–57 and 1949–53, and if he will provide similar figures relating to productivity in manufacturing industry alone.

I shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the average annual percentage increase (a) in total national productivity, defined as output per person employed over the economy as a whole, and (b) in productivity in manufacturing industry, between the first quarter of 1974 and the latest quarter for which figures are available; and how this compares with the average long-term annual rates of increase over the past 10, 20 and 30 years, respectively.

I shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.