A key index of British factory orders rose to its highest in almost two years in July, but export orders weakened and firms expected output to grow more slowly in the months ahead.
The Confederation of British Industry survey's total order book balance rose to -16 from this month from -23 in June, above the long-term average and the highest since August 2008.
A quarterly poll showed output rose at its fastest pace in 15 years in the three months to July, suggesting manufacturing will make a strong contribution to second quarter GDP growth.
However, the forward-looking indicators were weaker and the quarterly business situation balance fell to +10 from +24 in April, the lowest since October 2009.
