Orders in the fourth quarter of 2006 fell by three per cent compared to the previous quarter, with decreases in public housing and private commercial orders more than offsetting increases in private housing, infrastructure and private industrial orders. All orders figures quoted are seasonally adjusted and in constant (2000) prices.

Housing
Private housing orders in 2006 fell by two per cent compared to those in 2005. Orders in the fourth quarter of 2006 rose by 13 per cent compared with the previous quarter, and by 11 per cent compared with the same quarter a year earlier.

Public housing and housing association orders rose by 33 per cent in 2006 compared with 2005. Public housing and housing association orders in the fourth quarter of 2006 fell by 31 per cent compared to the previous quarter, and by five per cent compared to the same quarter a year earlier. All comparisons in this sector are affected by large variations due to its relatively small size.

Infrastructure orders in 2006 fell by 27 per cent compared with 2005. Orders in the fourth quarter of 2006 rose by four per cent compared with the previous quarter, but fell by 18 per cent when compared to the same quarter a year earlier.

Public non-housing orders (excluding infrastructure) in 2006 fell by nine per cent compared with 2005. Orders in the fourth quarter of 2006 remained unchanged compared with the previous quarter, but fell by one per cent compared to the same quarter a year earlier.

Private commercial orders in 2006 were 35 per cent higher than in 2005. Orders in the fourth quarter of 2006 were 12 per cent lower compared to the previous quarter, but rose by six per cent compared to the same quarter a year earlier.

Private industrial orders in 2006 rose by three per cent compared to the previous year. Orders in the fourth quarter of 2006 rose by one per cent compared to the previous quarter, but fell by 19 per cent compared to the same quarter a year ago.

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Susie Hughes
The Editor © Hardhatter 2007