Improved manufacturing sector activity welcomed

Activity in Britain's manufacturing sector ended 2010 on a 16-year high, according to a data released by Markit and the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.The monthly survey showed the manufacturing index rising to 58.3 in December, as it reached its highest level since September 1994 and easily exceeded economic forecasts for the sector.

Mark Woodhead, chairman of the British Cleaning Council, commented: "The figures will bring new year cheer for all UK based cleaning manufacturers, with the levels of demand in both domestic and international markets boding well for the UK's economic recovery as we enter 2011. Although this increase is undoubtedly good news for both our own sector and the wider economy, it must be noted that employment levels in the manufacturing industry have been consistently declining for several decades.With the expected drop in headcount in the public sector this year due to the coalition's austerity measures, continuing job-creation within the manufacturing sector will become crucial if we are to avoid high levels of unemployment”.

Manufacturing currently accounts for around 9% of the UK economy.The coalition government has emphasised its commitment to strengthening the manufacturing sector in the coming years as Britain seeks to boost exports and reduce its reliance on the financial sector.