In August the UK downturn in manufacturing slight eased, however factories have concerns over the global economic slowdown along with Brexit uncertainty.
The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) reported an improvement in output for August, as the CBI’s order book balance rose to -13 from -34 in July.
Some 15% of manufacturers said their order books are above normal and 28% of output is below normal.
Anna Leach, CBI deputy chief economist said, “Despite signs of stabilisation in the data this month, UK manufacturers remain on the receiving end of a double whammy, the slowdown in the global economy and Brexit uncertainty.
“Trade tensions between nations such as China and the US only exacerbate the demand uncertainty facing UK manufacturers.”
Tom Crotty, group director of Ineos and chair of the CBI Manufacturing Council said, “Relentless Brexit uncertainty has continued to be a millstone around the neck of manufacturing firms as we approach the end of the summer.
“It’s vital that the Government lifts this burden by ending the Brexit deadlock.
“Only then can our manufacturers turn their full attention to long-standing issues affecting the sector, such as solving the skills challenge and improving productivity.”
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