Manufacturing output has declined for a sixth month in a row, according to new figures.

The Markit Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) reveals that output fell to 41.5, up on the record low of 41 in September, but below a figure which represents contraction.

Roy Ayliffe, director at the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, said: “Conditions for UK manufacturers remained brutal in October, as the turmoil in the world’s financial markets showed no signs of abating. Purchasing managers in the sector have now reported six consecutive months of decline in production, endorsing industry reports that the UK is now technically in recession.”