James Moore: Let cash from Lloyds sell-off go to help manufacturing
Outlook
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.For once, there is a bit of optimism surrounding British manufacturing. Yesterday’s Purchasing Managers Index on factory output was a shade below analysts’ forecasts. But the data on future orders were very positive.
Right on cue Mr Cable’s shadow Chuka Umunna announces something grandiosely called “Labour’s agenda 2030”, before the Engineering Employers Federation, the manufacturers’ trade body. Unsurprisingly it’s rather longer on principles than it is on specifics.
The Government’s response will likely come with the budget in a couple of weeks but one measure both might consider is diverting some of the profits from the forthcoming Lloyds privatisation towards a stimulus package for the sector. The sun is shining on manufacturers, but it needs to stay there if the UK is to rebalance its economy.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments