Mike Rigby, Head of Manufacturing at Barclays, comments on today’s PMI manufacturing figures.

“The UK economy as a whole may have made a sluggish start to the year but following a solid first quarter, manufacturing continues to grow with healthy order books and encouraging levels of new investment and employment. Despite some easing, inflationary pressures will continue to take their toll on factory gate prices and ultimately manufacturers’ margins, however, the weakness in sterling and an improving global outlook continue to provide export opportunities for the sector. What we don’t want to see now is the prospect of fractious Brexit negotiations fostering a more cautious and uncertain approach to investment from the sector.”