These figures confirm the picture of a manufacturing sector facing pressures from all sides.

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We've seen over £50billion of additional business tax since 1997 and the share of Government spending has continued to ratchet upwards.

166

Strongest growth has been in business with private individuals, partly by increased borrowing for house purchases and increased interest in savings products.

140

With some notable exceptions, manufacturers continue to experience difficult times, with high energy costs continuing to add pressure to profit margins.

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