Manufacturers across the UK saw output in the three months to December fall at the fastest rate since the financial crisis, according to the Confederation of British Industry. Total order books remained weak, while export order books worsened compared with November, the latest monthly CBI Industrial Trends Survey of 289 manufacturers found. Anna Leach, CBI deputy chief economist, said: “With manufacturers reporting that output is declining at a pace not seen since the financial crisis, alongside another month of softer order books, it is crucially important to rebuild business confidence in this sector. Those surveyed said they believed output volumes would continue to fall in the first three months of 2020, but at a slower pace than currently. “Following the general election, manufacturers will be eager to see the prime minister break the cycle of Brexit uncertainty as a priority.

Source: The Irish Times December 17, 2019 20:56 UTC