BBC RADIO 4

Today Weekdays 6-9am and Saturdays 7-9am

Page last updated at 08:08 GMT, Tuesday, 26 July 2011 09:08 UK

Britain 'pessimistic' on economy

Advertisement

UK growth figures published on Tuesday are expected to show that the UK economy slowed between April and June.

Ben Page, chief executive of Ipsos Mori, told Today presenter Justin Webb that rather than talking about the GDP figures, most people would judge growth after noticing "the price of fuel and food in the shops".

The British people, he said, were generally "pessimistic" about the economy.

In her analysis, economics editor Stephanie Flanders said that the Royal Wedding "did play a part" in setting the economy off course.

However, she insisted the real debate was over what some recognised as a "fundamental weakness" in the economy - a weakness caused by problems with either supply or global demand.

"I think the trick for everyone actually is looking around for things that you can do to help the economy now," regardless of which explanation is the right one.


Get in touch with Today via email , Twitter or Facebook or text us on 84844.

SEE ALSO

Americas Africa Europe Middle East South Asia Asia Pacific