The figures for 2004 show that UK consumption of paper and board increased slightly to 12.7m tonnes, having stabilised at the 12.5m-tonne level for the past three years.

One of the most significant rises was in newsprint, where output increased by 10% to 1.1m tonnes, the first time it has reached this level in four years.

This was despite the use of alternative media affecting pagination levels for both magazines and newsprint during 2004.

Rising energy prices also failed to have an impact with overall tonnage levels remaining stable at 6.2m tonnes.

Imports increased to 7.7m tonnes, a rise of 1.4% on the previous year, and now represent over 61% of the UK's total paper and board consumption.

CPI president Richard Bourdon said the organisation would concentrate on setting the agenda for the next few years, now that its formation is complete, and will focus on the recruitment of new members.

The CPI's review also reported that paper sector reached its target of reducing industrial accidents by 25% in 2004, six years ahead of its 2010 deadline. As a result, a new set of achievable targets will now be established.

A working group has also been set up to review sector statistics, which will aim to provide members with the information most pertinent to them.

The Federation has also set down some plans for 2005. These include the closure of its London office and the modification of its Swindon headquarters.

Story by Andy Scott