THE prospect of a Labour government has not effected the confidence of industry leaders as election day approaches, according to a new poll published today.

According to the survey by the business information company Dun and Bradsheet, expectations for new orders are generally at their highest levels for two years and

confidence about increased sales and profits has remained the same as in the previous quarter.

In Scotland the proportion of firms expecting to employ more staff has increased from 52% to 61%. However, managing directors are not so confident about increases in sales and profits, with 65% expecting price rises.