THE Engineering Employers' Federation is one of 17 manufacturing trade bodies seeking to influence Chancellor Gordon Brown before he releases his forthcoming pre-Budget statement.

They want him to invest in measures to increase productivity rather than pursue increases in taxes.

EEF Director-General Martin Temple said: "Now is the perfect time for the Chancellor to prepare the ground for the recovery in the economy next year. As well as looking at medium term measures to improve productivity, such as boosting R&D, the pre-Budget statement should also provide an immediate boost to business confidence and cashflow.

"Recent statements from the Government have hinted at tax increases.

"Having borne the brunt of tax increases in the last few years, it would be highly regrettable at a time of such uncertainty if business were to be faced with any further increases."