Manufacturers embrace recovery
Britain's manufacturers are enjoying increasingly strong growth thanks to a combination of strong UK sales and a boost in overseas trade.
The latest survey by manufacturers' organisation, EEF reveals a more consistent picture than in recent quarters, with the strong conditions spreading to all regions and sectors.
What's more, EEF says the positive outlook is being translated into record high recruitment and investment intentions.
Chief economist Lee Hopley, said: "This is the most positive set of indicators we have seen for some time, demonstrating that we've not just turned the corner, we're actively heading down the right road.
"Manufacturers are clearly feeling more confident as their order books fill up and exports are strong. It is now vital that government does all that it can to underpin support for companies, giving manufacturers the confidence to fulfil their investment and recruitment plans."
In its report, EEF says that translating firms' intentions to invest and hire more staff into action will be the "ultimate test for long term economic recovery".
The Chancellor must gear his Budget this week to secure the best possible business conditions to support these investment and growth ambitions, it said.
