Manufacturing output remained at the same level as 2003 Q2, within which increases in the manufacture of textiles, leather and clothing were offset by declines in the manufacture of transport equipment and coke, refined petroleum and nuclear fuels.

Services rose by 0.8% over the quarter, compared to 0.2% in 2003 Q2, with growth driven by business and financial services. Within this sector, growth was strongest within business activities, which includes architectural and engineering services and legal activities. The distribution, hotels and catering sector rose by 0.7% due to increases in motor trades and retail activities.

The transport and communications sector rose by 0.4% with strong growth in air transport and transport support. Elsewhere, government and other services rose by 0.6% over the quarter with steady increases across most sectors.

Early estimates of construction suggest output rose by 2.5%. This is largely a model-based estimate and subject to revision as survey results become available.

Household expenditure rose by 0.7% with continuing strong growth in goods, especially durables and semi-durables. The level of government expenditure increased although government spending on investment type goods declined.

Business investment declined over the quarter, despite increased activity related to construction, as investment in plant and machinery, excluding transport equipment declined. The trade balance worsened as exports of goods fell by 0.5% and imports of goods rose by 1.0%.

On the income side, compensation of employees rose by 1.5% driven by an increase in average earnings, with little change in employment. Corporate incomes rose by 0.6% in 2003 Q3, with diverse movements across the industrial sectors.