LAST week's Pre-Budget Report was eagerly awaited this year as the robustness of the British economy is tested by events in America and around the world.

It was also the first major economic and spending statement by the Labour Government since the election in June.

The report was upbeat, with the British economy forecast for steady and stable growth with low inflation and sound public finances - in fact, the strongest economic growth in the G8 group of developed countries.

In the election, the British people rejected short-term tax cuts at the expense of public services.

Gordon Brown was able to take another step on the way to delivering on Labour's election promises of investment in our public services by announcing more money for the NHS, more support for pensioners and more help for working families and for making work pay.

There was help for businesses too, with tax credits for research, development and innovation to encourage risk taking and investment at a time when confidence may be lacking in some boardrooms.

On Friday, I visited three business leaders in Redditch, two in their manufacturing plants and the Chamber of Commerce at their Redditch Office.

I saw the tough, competitive conditions under which manufacturing has to operate these days, with relentless pressure to reduce costs and improve productivity.

None of those I met want any handouts but they did want me to understand the pressure that they are under.

And while seeking my support for the cause of manufacturing, there was a general appreciation of the stable economic position that we enjoy in Britain today.

Manufacturers don't like boom and bust any more than the rest of us with all the insecurity that that entails.

I will fight my corner for manufacturing in Redditch and I hope that our companies will use all the help and tax credits available to them to invest, innovate, develop and, as a result, compete on the world stage.