Economic situation

All Standard Notes
85 Documents
DateDescription
02.08.2013Household Debt: Economic Indicators page
This Economics Indicator page gives the latest household debt statistics, including net lending, mortgage interest rates and insolvencies.
02.08.2013Exchange rates: Economic Indicators page
This page shows recent data on the value of the pound relative to other major international currencies.
02.08.2013Interest Rates and the Money Supply: Economic indicators page
Latest official interest rates from the UK, euro zone and the US; a summary of the Bank of England's quantitative easing policy; and the latest money supply data for the UK.
02.08.2013Financial Indicators: Economic Indicators page
The FTSE-100 is up 6% on the month and up 18% on the year. Oil is up 5% on the month and up 3% on the year. Gold is up 6% on the month and down 17% on the year.
02.08.2013GDP - International comparisons: Economic Indicators page
Comparisons of latest GDP data and forecasts for the UK and the world's largest economies.
01.08.2013Manufacturing: Economic Indicators page
This page includes data on maufacturing jobs, output and producer confidence.
31.07.2013Inflation: International: Economic indicators page
Eurozone inflation is expected to be 1.6% in the year to July 2013, unchanged from June. UK inflation was 2.9% in the year to June 2013, up from 2.7% in May.
31.07.2013Housing Market: Economic Indicators page
Bank of England data on the number of mortgages approved to finance house purchases are a leading indicator of house sales.
31.07.2013Gross Domestic Product: Economic Indicators page
The economy grew by an estimated 0.6% in Q2 2013, following growth of 0.3% in Q1 2013.
30.07.2013Business and Consumer Confidence: Economic Indicators page
This page provides latest information on business and consumer confidence surveys, which is generally released ahead of official statistical data and can indicate changes to the economic outlook as well as turning points in the economic cycle.
26.07.2013Service industries: Economic Indicators page
The service industry incorporates the retail sector, the financial sector, the public sector, business administration and cultural activities .
25.07.2013Components of GDP: Economic Indicators page
Latest data on the components that make up GDP, including household consumption, government spending, investment, net trade and output by sector.
19.07.2013Retail Sales: Economic Indicators page
Summary of the latest data on retail sales.
19.07.2013Public Finances: Economic Indicators page
This page includes key data on pubic sector borrowing and debt.
19.07.2013Average Earnings: Economic Indicators page
Latest data on average weekly earnings, including breakdowns by public and private sectors and manufacturing and service sectors.
18.07.2013Inflation: Economic Indicators page
Summary of latest inflation data from both the CPI and RPI inflation indices.
17.07.2013Employment: Economic Indicators page
There were 29.71 million people aged 16 and over in employment in the UK in March to May 2013, up by 16,000 compared to the previous quarter and by 336,000 compared to the same period last year.
11.07.2013UK Balance of Trade: Economic Indicators page
Latest trade statistics for the UK.
09.07.2013Unemployment - International Comparisons: Economic Indicators page
This page provides harmonised unemployment rates for major international economies.
02.07.2013Government borrowing and debt: international comparisons
This note provides data on government borrowing and debt for advanced economies between 2007 and 2018.
28.06.2013Productivity: Economic Indicators page
This note shows UK productivity by sector and comparisons of UK productivity with other G7 countries.
14.06.2013Background to the 2013 Spending Review
This note provides background information ahead of the 2013 Spending Review, which will be announced on the 26 June 2013.
04.06.2013Food Banks and Food Poverty
The number of food banks in the UK has increased substantially in recent years. This note explains how food banks work, examines their growth and discusses possible contributing factors.
31.05.2013The productivity puzzle
This note looks at some of the suggested reasons why productivity in the UK has not recovered to its previous levels - the so called 'productivity puzzle'
29.05.2013Sources of economic statistics
A brief guide to key sources of economic statistics.
29.05.2013Regional Growth Fund
At the 2012 Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced a further £310 million for the Regional Growth Fund (RGF), which will be extended into 2015-16. The RGF is now worth over £2.7 billion over the five years from 2011-12 to 2015-16. It is intended to promote the private sector in areas in England most at risk to public sector cuts.
28.05.2013Labour Productivity in the UK
This short note looks at labour productivity statistics in the UK.
03.05.2013Japan's economy: from the 'lost decade' to Abenomics
The effects of the sluggish growth in the 1990s ("the lost decade") are still being felt today in Japan's economy. A new government has embarked on a radical plan to revitalise the fortunes of the world's third largest economy. These policies have become known as Abenomics, after the new Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
30.04.2013Industries in the UK since 1970
This note presents data on the value and relative contribution of major industries to the UK economy since 1970.
12.04.2013Business statistics
This note includes information on the number of businesses since 2001, small businesses, business by region, businesses by industry business births and deaths and information on female representation in business. It also features some discussion of the sources of business statistics and their coverage.
20.03.2013A summary of the 2013 Budget
This note summarises the main points of the 2013 Budget.
14.03.2013Background to the 2013 Budget
This note sets out the economic and public finance background to the 2013 Budget.
13.03.2013Government borrowing, debt and debt interest: historical statistics and forecasts
This note provides statistics on government borrowing, debt and debt interest payments. Historical figures and forecasts are shown. The note is purely statistical: there is no analysis.
07.03.2013Interest rates and inflation
On 7 March, the Bank of England announced that interest rates would be kept on hold at 0.5%. Interest rates have been unchanged for forty-eight months (since March 2009). The next interest rate announcement will be on 4 April. Inflation (measured by the change in the CPI) showed inflation at 2.7% in January 2013 for the fourth consecutive month and above the Bank of England's 2% target for the thirty-eighth successive month. The next inflation figures (for February 2013) are due to be published on 19 March.
18.01.2013Algeria 2013
Instability in North Africa appears to be spreading, as a hostage crisis unfolds in an Algerian gas plant run jointly by BP. The Algerian government seemed to have escaped lightly compared with other North African governments from the Arab uprisings. But the war in neighbouring Libya and increasing unrest in the Sahel region to Algeria's south have taken their toll. It remains to be seen whether Algeria's authoritarian regime will be seriously challenged by the twin threats of domestic political unrest and jihadi terrorism.
09.01.2013Public sector employment and expenditure by region
This note shows the regional pattern of public spending and public sector employment.
13.12.2012Regional Gross Value Added
In 2011, London's Gross Value Added (GVA) per head of population was 71% above the UK average, while that of Wales was 25% below the average.
06.12.2012UK - Commonwealth trade statistics
This short note looks at UK - Commonwealth trade statistics. It has been prepared for a Westminster Hall Private Members' Debate on Commonwealth Trade on Wednesday 12 December 2012.
05.12.2012The 2012 Autumn Statement
This note summarises the main points of the Autumn Statement.
05.12.2012Local Enterprise Partnerships
The Government has now approved a total of 39 Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs). These cover all areas of England.
03.12.2012Background to the 2012 Autumn Statement
The Chancellor will present the Autumn Statement on 5 December. This note sets out the economic and public finance background to the Statement.
30.11.2012Bank of England Asset Purchase Facility Fund Limited (BEAPFF)
This short note provides background on the recent announcement that the Bank of England is to transfer to the Exchequer excess cash held by the Bank as part of its programme of Quantitative Easing (QE).
23.11.2012Businesses by constituency
This note provides some key statistics on businesses by parliamentary constituency. It includes a full constituency list showing the change between 2010 and 2012 and information on on businesses by industrial sector.
24.10.2012The eurozone crisis: action taken by the European Central Bank (ECB)
This note discusses some of the 'unconventional' measures taken by the ECB in response to the euro crisis and the political controversy they have generated.
23.10.2012UK/India trade statistics
This short note looks at UK/India trade statistics and was prepared for the Westminster Hall Private Members' Debate on UK-India trade on Wednesday 25 January 2012.
21.08.2012The financial sector's contribution to the UK economy
In 2011, financial and insurance services contributed £125.4 billion in gross value added (GVA) to the UK economy, 9.4% of the UK's total GVA. This note sets out some key statistics on the financial services industry in the UK.
06.07.2012Scotland's economy: current situation and issues related to independence
04.07.2012The budget deficit: a short guide
This note aims to answer some FAQs related to the budget deficit.
11.06.2012Credit easing: National Loan Guarantee Scheme and Business Finance Partnership
This note looks at the short history of credit easing (National Loan Guarantee Scheme (NLGS) for small businesses and the Business Finance Partnership) in the UK and recent evidence from the US.
25.05.2012The eurozone crisis - rescuing Greece
Greece's long-standing public debt problem became a crisis at the start of 2010 and has since escalated to a point where it threatens the survival of the euro. This note describes the country's May 2010 and February 2012 bail-out agreements, the results of the May 2012 elections, future prospects, and implications of euro exit
27.04.2012Measuring well-being
How is measurement of well-being or "happiness" being investigated in the UK to complement more traditional measures of progress?
27.04.2012Sudan and South Sudan: All-out war?
On 9 July 2011, South Sudan formally seceded from Sudan. But many issues remain unresolved and there has been an upsurge in conflict since then in Abyei, Blue Nile and South Kordofan - known as the 'Three Areas'. This note surveys the many challenges still facing the 'two Sudans'.
25.04.2012Lending to business
This note sets out statistics available on lending to business and discusses recent trends in the data.
22.03.2012Quantitative easing
The MPC voted to increase the size of the asset purchase programme by £75 billion to a total of £275 billion following its meeting on 6 October 2011 and to £325 billion on 9 February 2012.. This note sets out the background to the policy, how it is expected to work and some possible concerns about its use.
22.03.2012The 2012 Budget
This note summarises the main points of the 2012 Budget.
16.03.2012Background to the 2012 Budget
This note sets out the economic, public finance and taxation background to the 2012 Budget.
27.01.2012International comparisons of manufacturing output
The UK ranks ninth in the world in terms of total manufacturing output.
05.12.2011Bangladesh: an update
This note surveys recent political and economic developments in Bangladesh, where Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League have dominated the political scene since the December 2008 elections but may face a growing challenge as the next electoral cycle begins in earnest during 2012. Economically, there has been reasonably high growth in recent years thanks to expanding exports and strong progress on key MDGs.
29.11.2011The 2011 Autumn Statement
This note summarises the main points of the 2011 Autumn Statement.
28.11.2011Background to the 2011 Autumn Statement
This note sets out the background to the 2011 Autumn Statement which will take place on 29 November.
25.11.2011Nigeria under Jonathan
This note surveys President Goodluck Jonathan's ascent to office, which culminated in a decisive victory in the April 2011 presidential election, and developments since then. He has promised 'transformation' but his performance so far has disappointed many observers. There is growing discontent in the north, where there is a sense of political and economic marginalisation, and renewed signs of restiveness in the Niger Delta. Nigeria's economic and development record is also falling short in numerous respects.
07.06.2011Benefit and tax credit recipients by local area
Latest benefit and tax credit recipient numbers by local authority, focusing on benefits affected by changes in 2010 Budget
03.06.2011The economic crisis: policy responses
This note brings together the various elements of Government action to deal with the current economic crisis
30.03.2011The 2011 Budget
This note summarises the main points of the 2011 Budget and the reaction to it.
28.03.2011Background to the 2011 Budget
This note sets out the background to the 2011 Budget which will take place on Wednesday, 23 March.
07.12.2010Zimbabwe since the Global Political Agreement
This note surveys political, economic and humanitarian developments in Zimbabwe since the signing of the Global Political Agreement in September 2008.
30.11.2010The 2010 Autumn Statement
This note provides background on the 2010 Autumn Statement which will be presented to the House by the Chancellor on monday 29 November.
24.11.2010Cost of a bank holiday
The latest Government estimate is that an additional bank holiday would cost the economy £2.9 billion.
22.10.2010Background to the 2010 Spending Review
This note sets out the background to the Spending Review which will take place on 20 October.
19.10.2010G20 & the November 2010 Seoul summit
The G20 has met at leaders' level since November 2008. The second summit in 2010 takes place in Seoul in November. This note provides background to the G20, outcomes of summits so far, the agenda for Seoul, and the G8/G20 relationship.
17.08.2010Public sector employment by parliamentary constituency
Table showing employment in public administration, health and education by parliamentary constituency
29.07.2010India: Development aid from the UK & other donors
UK aid to India was £297 million in 2008/09, and India has received more UK overseas aid than any other country since 1998. As one of the rapidly expanding emerging 'BRIC' economies, this aid programme has come under increasingly intense scrutiny. Recent commentary and Government statements are summarised.
29.06.2010June 2010 Budget: a summary
This note provides a summary of the main points of the 2010 Budget and the initial reaction to it.
18.06.2010Background to the June 2010 Budget
This note gives the economic, public finance and taxation background to the June 2010 Budget
30.04.2010Global Economic Crisis & developing countries
This note was last published on 26 August 2009 and will not be updated. In the early stages of the financial crisis there were hopes that it would be largely contained within developed economies, with developing economies having 'decoupled' from them. These early hopes proved unfounded, with developing countries struck by declining trade, a loss of investor confidence and withdrawal of investment, a fall in the value of vital remittances, and much reduced growth and contraction in some cases. There are also fears that aid flows may suffer in the aftermath of the crisis. This note summarises key reports and statistics, with links to further resources.
12.04.2010The credit crisis:a timeline
This Standard Note provides a brief history of the events that took place during the credit crisis (also known as the credit crunch).
26.03.2010The 2010 Budget
This note summarises the main points in the 2010 Budget and the reaction to it.
09.03.2010Background to the 2010 Budget
This note sets out the economic and public finance background to the 2010 Budget.
10.12.2009Background to the 2009 Pre-Budget Report
This note provides the economic and public finance background to the 2009 Pre-Budget Report.
10.12.2009The 2009 Pre-Budget Report
This note sets out the main features of the 2009 Pre-Budget Report and the reaction to it.
04.11.2009Cyprus: a political and economic overview
Cyprus has been divided between the Greek community in the south and the Turkish community in the north since 1974. 2008 brought a renew sense of optimism to those eager for a reunification settlement, but this has now receded somewhat, with suggestions that a 'window of opportunity' may close in the spring of 2010. The economic situation - slowing in the south and already poor in the north - could be further damaged if there is no settlement deal.
21.04.2009Background to the 2009 Budget
The 2009 Budget will be presented by the Chancellor on 22 April. This note provides background on recent developments and forecasts for the economy and public finances.
27.03.2009Iceland's financial crisis
The global financial crisis has been tumultuous for Iceland. Until recently considered a rich, successful and competitive nation, Iceland suffered a dramatic collapse of its economy and currency following the collapse of its banking sector in October 2008. It was forced to negotiate a loan from the IMF and further financial support from a number of countries, and saw the fall of its government. The crisis has led to renewed suggestions that Iceland may apply to join the EU and adopt the euro. Following the Government's fall in January 2009, a caretaker Government took over in February and elections are expected on 25 April 2009. The major partner in the caretaker left-wing coalition, the Social Democratic Alliance, was a member of the previous administration and is strongly pro-EU, but its new partner, the Left Green Movement, has said it will continue to oppose EU membership.
20.11.2008Background to the 2008 Pre-Budget Report
This note provides background to the Pre-Budget Report which will be delivered on 24 November. The note covers the outlook for the economy and public finances and the measures the Government may take to boost the economy.
01.07.2008Sovereign Wealth Funds
This note summarises the background to and issues surrounding Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs), which have received a great deal of political and media attention through the creation of China's fund and the large investments made by SWFs in various Western financial institutions during the global 'credit crunch'.
All Research Papers
166 Documents
DateDescription
17.07.2013Unemployment by Constituency, July 2013
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
02.07.2013Economic Indicators, July 2013
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
12.06.2013Unemployment by Constituency June 2013
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics
04.06.2013Economic Indicators, June 2013
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
15.05.2013Unemployment by Constituency May 2013
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
07.05.2013Economic Indicators, May 2013
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
17.04.2013Unemployment by Constituency, April 2013
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
09.04.2013Economic Indicators, April 2013
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
20.03.2013Unemployment by Constituency, March 2013
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
19.03.2013Economic Indicators, Budget Update
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
06.03.2013Economic Indicators, March 2013
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
20.02.2013Unemployment by Constituency, February 2013
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
05.02.2013Economic Indicators, February 2013
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
23.01.2013Unemployment by Constituency, January 2013
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
08.01.2013Economic Indicators, January 2013
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
13.12.2012Growth and Infrastructure Bill: Committee Stage Report
This is a report on the House of Commons Committee Stage of the Growth and Infrastructure Bill. It complements Research Paper 12/61 prepared for Commons Second Reading
12.12.2012Unemployment by Constituency, December 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
03.12.2012Economic Indicators, December 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
14.11.2012Unemployment by Constituency, November 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
06.11.2012Economic Indicators, November 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
01.11.2012Growth and Infrastructure Bill
The Growth and Infrastructure Bill seeks to reduce delays in the planning system and to facilitate new development, through various means. It would allow planning obligations (section 106 agreements) relating to affordable housing to be renegotiated. To promote economic growth, it makes provision for a planned revaluation of business rates in England to be postponed and to create a new employment status of employee owner. Its second reading date has been moved from 30 October to 5 November 2012.
17.10.2012Unemployment by Constituency, October 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
02.10.2012Economic Indicators, October 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
12.09.2012Unemployment by Constituency, September 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
12.09.2012Infrastructure (Financial Assistance) Bill
This briefing has been prepared to inform the Second Reading debate on the Infrastructure (Financial Assistance) Bill
04.09.2012Economic Indicators, September 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
15.08.2012Unemployment by Constituency, August 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
07.08.2012Economic Indicators, August 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
26.07.2012Olympic Britain
Olympic Britain tells the story of the profound economic and social change in the UK since the two previous London Olympics, in 1908 and 1948, using statistics and expert analysis. The book can also be browsed using the Parliament website at www.parliament.uk/business/publications/research/olympic-britain/
18.07.2012Unemployment by Constituency, July 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
03.07.2012Economic Indicators, July 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
20.06.2012Unemployment by Constituency, June 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
06.06.2012Economic Indicators, June 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
16.05.2012Unemployment by Constituency, May 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
01.05.2012Economic Indicators, May 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
18.04.2012Unemployment by Constituency, April 2012
This paper contains labour market figures for parliamentary constituencies, as well as a summary of the latest national and regional statistics.
03.04.2012Economic Indicators, April 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
27.03.2012The Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union: political issues
This paper looks at the background to the TSCG, the reasons for the UK's non-participation and some of the issues it raises, such as its effectiveness, its relationship with the EU Treaties and EU law, the use of the EU institutions in a non-EU treaty, and whether it could give rise to a 'two-speed' Europe and further UK isolation in the EU.
20.03.2012Economic Indicators, Budget update
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
06.03.2012Economic Indicators, March 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
07.02.2012Economic Indicators, February 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
10.01.2012Economic Indicators, January 2012
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
14.12.2011Southeast Asia: A political and economic introduction
This paper provides a broad introduction to Southeast Asia. It offers key facts and figures about the region, followed by country studies of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. It then looks more analytically at two key issues for the region: democratisation and Islamist terrorism. It ends with a select bibliography.
06.12.2011Economic Indicators, December 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
01.11.2011Economic Indicators, November 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
04.10.2011Economic Indicators, October 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
06.09.2011Economic Indicators, September 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
02.08.2011Economic Indicators, August 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
05.07.2011Economic Indicators, July 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
07.06.2011Economic Indicators, June 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
03.05.2011Economic Indicators, May 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. The ONS's first estimate of Q1 2011 GDP showed that the economy grew by 0.5% compared with the previous quarter. Growth in Q1 came from the manufacturing sector (up by 1.1%) and the services sector (up by 0.9%). However, overall GDP growth was reined in by a steep decline in construction output (down by 4.7%). The Q1 outturn followed a 0.5% decline in GDP in Q4 2010 when bad weather was blamed for the contraction in activity. Taking the two quarters together, economic output remained unchanged over the six month period October 2010-March 2011.
05.04.2011Economic Indicators, April 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. The decline in Q4 2010 GDP was revised from 0.6% to 0.5%. ONS estimated that if the effects of December's winter weather were excluded, GDP would have been unchanged. Although data from early 2011 is mixed, the economy is likely to have returned to growth in Q1. The manufacturing sector continues to expand strongly and business confidence indicators are generally positive. However, with earnings growth failing to keep pace with rising inflation, consumer expenditure - which makes up around two-thirds of GDP - is likely to remain subdued in the near future.
22.03.2011Economic Indicators, Budget update
Recent data show unemployment rose to its highest level since 1994 in the three months to January and CPI inflation increased to 4.4% in February (compared with average earnings growth of 2.3%). Meanwhile, public finance statistics show that for the first 11 months of fiscal year 2010/11 the government borrowed nearly 10% less than in the same period of 2009/10. As a result, full-year borrowing in 2010/11 is likely to be less than the OBR's November forecast of £149 billion. For more information see the Library's background briefing to the Budget. Following the Budget an additional Library briefing will be available
01.03.2011Economic Indicators, March 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. Revisions to Q4 2010 GDP showed the economy had contracted more sharply than first thought, -0.6% compared with an initial figure of -0.5%. In addition, unemployment remains stuck around 2.5 million and average earnings are growing at around half the rate of inflation. Other indicators are more positive. The manufacturing sector is growing strongly, business sentiment is improving and retail sales recovered in January. [Article: 'Lending to small businesses' and 'The UK's aid programmes - where is the money going?']
01.02.2011Economic Indicators, February 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. The 0.5% contraction in GDP in Q4 2010 surprised most economists who had predicted modest growth. The ONS blamed the impact of December's weather for some, but not all, of the weakness. This together with other recent economic data - particularly increasing unemployment, rising inflation and falling consumer confidence - further amplify the uncertainty about the economy in 2011. [Articles:'GDP growth: It was the weather - wasn't it?' and 'Working out work - what's happening in the labour market?']
11.01.2011Economic Indicators, January 2011
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. Latest data from the labour market show the unemployment rate rising to 7.9% in the three months to October, the first quarterly increase since April. The number of people in employment fell during the same period, with the number of people in full-time employment still lower compared with a year ago. These figures, together with tax increases and above-target inflation, make for an uncertain economic outlook in 2011. [Articles:'The VAT increase' and 'Eurozone debt crises']
07.12.2010Economic Indicators, December 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. Quarterly GDP growth of 0.8% in Q3 was confirmed, with broad gains across all sectors of the economy. Consumer spending in Q3 increased by only 0.3%, compared with a 0.7% rise in Q2, while government expenditure increased by 0.4% compared with a 1.0% rise in Q2. Exports rose by 2.2% in Q3; with imports increasing by only 0.7%, net trade provided a large positive contribution to overall GDP growth, raising hopes that the economy is starting to rebalance. [Articles:'Quantitative Easing - how does it work?' and 'Businesses and recession']
02.11.2010Economic indicators, November 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. It includes articles entitled 'The outlook for the public finances' and 'Which sectors are driving the economic recovery?' [Articles:'The outlook for the public finances' and 'Which sectors are driving the economic recovery?']
25.10.2010Postal Services Bill [Bill 78 of 2010-11]
This Paper has been prepared for the Second Reading debate in the House of Commons of the Postal Services Bill. The Bill has four main parts. Part 1 provides for changes to the ownership structure of Royal Mail Holdings plc and its subsidiaries (including Post Office Ltd). Part 2 provides for Royal Mail's historic pension deficit to be transferred to government. Part 3 provides for changes in the regulatory arrangements for postal services and Part 4 provides for a 'special administration regime' should there be a risk to the universal postal service from the possibility of the provider becoming insolvent.
05.10.2010Economic Indicators, October 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. Employment in the three months to July 2010 was 286,000 higher than the previous quarter, mainly due to an increase in part-time employment. This is the largest quarterly increase in employment since records began in 1971. GDP growth in Q2 2010 was confirmed at 1.2%, the fastest quarterly increase in national output since 2001. Manufacturing output continues to recover strongly, increasing by 4.9% in the year to July, although employment in the sector fell. [Articles: 'Saving the Economy?' and 'Comparing earnings in the public and private sector']
07.09.2010Economic Indicators, September 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. This issue includes articles entitled 'The North-South divide' and 'Comparing UK Unemployment Internationally'. [Articles: 'The North-South divide' and 'Comparing UK Unemployment Internationally']
03.08.2010Economic Indicators, August 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. This issue includes articles entitled 'Analysing the recent recession' and 'UK aid budget: under pressure?'. [Articles: 'Analysing the recent recession' and 'UK aid budget: under pressure?']
06.07.2010Economic indicators, July 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. This edition includes articles on future growth in the UK economy, and the CPI and benefit indexation. [article:'Future growth in the UK economy' and 'The CPI and benefit indexation']
01.06.2010Economic indicators, June 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. [Article: 'Is the recent rise in inflation temporary?' and 'Household income and poverty in 2008/09']
13.05.2010Economic indicators, May 2010
A research paper series that summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article:'The General Election and the financial markets' and 'Greece's debt crises']
06.04.2010Economic indicators, April 2010
A research paper series that summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: 'Summary of Budget 2010']
02.03.2010Economic indicators, March 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major countries. [Article: 'The budget deficit and the economic cycle']
02.02.2010Economic indicators, February 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major countries. [Article: 'Average Earnings and Pay Prospects in 2010']
06.01.2010Economic indicators, January 2010
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major countries. [Article:' Wealth in Great Britain: Wealth and Assets Survey']
01.12.2009Economic indicators, December 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major countries. [Article: Making sense of monthly public sector borrowing statistics]
03.11.2009Economic indicators, November 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: Comparing recessions]
07.10.2009Economic indicators, October 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: Labour market composition: long term trends]
09.09.2009Economic indicators, September 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: The UK manufacturing sector]
07.07.2009Economic indicators, July 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: The Alignment Project: clearer government finances]
03.06.2009Economic indicators, June 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Indicator-only edition]
06.05.2009Economic indicators, May 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: The 2009 Budget - economic and public finance forecasts]
08.04.2009Economic Indicators, April 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: The London Summit: background and outcomes]
04.03.2009Economic indicators, March 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: Social aspects of recession]
03.02.2009Economic indicators, February 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Articles: The UK economy in recession; The current UK labour market situation]
09.01.2009Economic indicators, January 2009
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Indicator-only edition]
04.12.2008Economic indicators, December 2008
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: Pre-Budget Report 2008: public finances and tax measures]
04.11.2008Economic indicators, November 2008
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Articles: Employment in financial services; Fiscal rules and the public finances]
06.10.2008Economic indicators, October 2008
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Articles: The financial markets in the summer of 2008; LIBOR: What is it?]
02.09.2008Economic Indicators, September 2008
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators
05.08.2008Economic Indicators, August 2008
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators.
01.07.2008Economic Indicators, July 2008
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries for selected indicators. [Article: Sovereign wealth funds.] The series also includes articles on topical issues. This month's article: Sovereign wealth funds
03.06.2008Economic Indicators, June 2008
[Articles: UK tourism trends - where will the UK holiday this year?; The recent decline in sterling]
06.05.2008Economic Indicators, May 2008
[Article: The UK housing and mortgage markets]
01.04.2008Economic Indicators, April 2008
04.03.2008Economic Indicators, March 2008
[Articles: Background to the 2008 Budget; Fairtrade]
05.02.2008Economic Indicators, February 2008
This month's articles: Perceptions of inflation; Aid to the Occupied Palestinian Territories
08.01.2008Economic Indicators, January 2008
Economic Indicators, January 2008. House of Commons Library Research Paper 08/01.
04.12.2007Economic Indicators, December 2007
Economic Indicators, December 2007. [Articles - The burden of taxation: 2007 update; Household Debt] House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/83.
06.11.2007Economic Indicators, November 2007
Economic Indicators, November 2007. [Includes articles on Overseas aid expenditure and Inheritance tax statistics]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/74.
08.10.2007Economic Indicators, October 2007
Economic Indicators, October 2007. [Includes article on National Minimum Wage statistics]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/69.
02.07.2007Economic Indicators, July 2007
Economic Indicators, July 2007. [Includes article on The UK economy since 1997] House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/58.
02.05.2007An economic introduction to India
An economic introduction to India. House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/40.
01.05.2007Economic Indicators, May 2007
Economic indicators, May 2007. [Includes article on overseas aid: international comparisons] House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/39.
01.03.2007Economic Indicators, March 2007
Economic Indicators, March 2007. [Includes article on Background to the 2007 Budget.] House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/23.
01.02.2007Economic Indicators, February 2007
Economic indicators, February 2007. [Includes article on Second World War Debt]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 07/12.
01.12.2006Economic Indicators, December 2006
Economic indicators, December 2006. [Includes article on 2006 Pre-Budget Report] House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/59.
01.11.2006Economic Indicators, November 2006
Economic indicators, November 2006. [Includes article on The UK and Foreign Direct Investment]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/52.
02.10.2006Economic indicators, October 2006
Economic indicators, October 2006. [Includes article on national minimum wage statistics]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/45.
03.07.2006Economic Indicators, July 2006
Economic indicators. [Includes article on The Doha WTO Trade Round]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/37.
19.06.2006A Political and Economic Introduction to China
A Political and Economic Introduction to China. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/36
02.05.2006Economic Indicators, May 2006
Economic Indicators. [Includes article on appointments to the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/25.
01.03.2006Economic Indicators, March 2006
Economic indicators. [Includes article on background to the 2006 Budget]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/12.
13.02.2006Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-2005
Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-2005. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/09.
01.02.2006Economic Indicators, February 2006
Economic indicators. [Includes article on the 80% employment aspiration]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 06/05.
01.12.2005Economic Indicators, December 2005
Economic indicators. [Includes article on trade justice, the WTO Doha Round and Hong Kong]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 05/84.
01.11.2005Economic Indicators, November 2005
Economic indicators. [Includes article on the outlook for the UK economy]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 05/74.
01.07.2005Economic Indicators, July 2005
Economic indicators. [Includes article on EU and G7 competitiveness indicators]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 05/53.
06.06.2005Economic Indicators, June 2005
Economic indicators. [Includes article on Welcome to Economic indicators and the Economic Policy and Statistics Section]. House of Commons Library Paper 05/40.
01.03.2005Economic Indicators, March 2005
Economic indicators. [Includes article on debt relief for developing countries]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 05/17.
01.02.2005Economic Indicators, February 2005
Economic indicators. [Includes article on the rise of the Chinese economy]. House of Commons Library Research Paper 05/11.
01.12.2004Economic Indicators, December 2004
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Background to the Pre-Budget Report). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/87.
01.11.2004Economic Indicators, November 2004
Economic indicators. (Includes article on EU/US Airbus/Boeing WTO dispute). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/80.
06.09.2004Economic Indicators, September 2004
Economic indicators. (Includes article on recent developments in the US economy). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/67.
01.07.2004Economic Indicators, July 2004
Economic indicators. (Includes article on impact of high oil prices). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/53.
04.05.2004Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Offshoring). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/35.
01.04.2004Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Lyons Review). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/30.
01.03.2004Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Background to the 2004 Budget). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/20.
02.02.2004Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Consumer borrowing). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/11.
01.12.2003Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Background to the Pre-Budget Report - the golden rule). House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/86.
11.11.2003Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-2002
Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-2002. House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/82.
03.11.2003Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on National Statistics revisions). House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/81.
01.07.2003Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on the RPI to HICP - a new inflation measure for the UK). House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/57.
01.05.2003Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on the current WTO trade round). House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/37.
01.04.2003Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Changes to National Insurance Contributions, April 2003). House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/33.
03.03.2003Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on the Economic background to 2003 Budget). House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/18.
03.02.2003Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Changes to unemployment rates for parliamentary constituencies). House of Commons Library Research Paper 03/11.
01.12.2002Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Public expenditure). House of Commons Library Research Paper 02/70.
01.11.2002Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on the Stability and Growth Pact: the difficult years). House of Commons Library Research Paper 02/59.
11.07.2002Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-2001
Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-2001. House of Commons Library Research Paper 02/44.
01.07.2002Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Housing market overheating). House of Commons Library Research Paper 02/42.
01.05.2002Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Steel-the new transatlantic trade conflict). House of Commons Research Paper 02/29.
01.03.2002Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on London Underground-Public Private Partnership (PPP)). House of Commons Library Research Paper 02/13.
03.12.2001Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on the New Trade Round). House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/109.
01.11.2001Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on Slow Growth and Public Expenditure). House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/82.
02.07.2001Economic indicators
Economic indicators. (Includes article on the Economic Policy and Statistics Section). House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/60.
01.05.2001Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. Includes article on the annual business inquiry. House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/48.
02.04.2001Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. Includes article on the effects of foot and mouth disease on the economy. House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/42.
01.03.2001Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. Includes article on March 2001 Budget. House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/17.
01.02.2001Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/13.
01.12.2000Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 00/91. (Includes article on General Agreement on Trade in Services).
31.10.2000Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 00/85. (Includes article on average earnings and the impact of the national minimum wage)
30.06.2000Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 00/67. (Includes article on National Statistics)
25.05.2000Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 00/56. (Includes article on employee jobs by constituency).
03.04.2000Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 00/41.(Includes article on Rover -the story so far)
01.03.2000Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 00/21.(Includes article on the economic background to the March 2000 budget)
01.02.2000Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 00/9.(Includes article on a new climate for inflation).
01.12.1999Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/96
01.11.1999Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/86
01.07.1999Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/69
04.05.1999Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/47
01.04.1999Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/37
01.03.1999Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/22.
23.02.1999Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-1998
Inflation: the value of the pound 1750-1998. House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/20. (Replaces Research Paper 97/76).
01.02.1999Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators.House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/8
01.12.1998Economic Indicators
Economic Indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 98/101
01.07.1998Economic indicators
Economic indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 98/71.
04.06.1998GDP per capita in OECD countries: the UK's relative position
GDP per capita in OECD countries: the UK's relative position. House of Commons Library Research Paper 98/64.
01.05.1998Economic indicators
Economic indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 98/54
01.04.1998Economic Indicators
Economic indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 98/40.
02.03.1998Economic indicators
Economic indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 98/30
03.02.1998Economic indicators
Economic indicators. House of Commons Library Research Paper 98/17.
All Select Committee Reports
20 Select Committee Reports
DateDescription
01.12.2010Meeting with the Governor of the Bank of England.
Economic Affairs Select Committee (HL) report [Lords]
29.03.2010The effect of the economic downturn on the people in the West Midlands.
West Midlands Select Committee; Communities and Local Government report [Commons]
11.01.2010The effect of the economic downturn on the people in the West Midlands.
West Midlands Select Committee report [Commons]
24.11.2009Banking crisis: regulation and supervision.
Government response. Treasury; Financial Services Authority; Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
23.11.2009The impact of the current economic and financial situation on businesses in the West Midlands region....
Communities and Local Government; West Midlands Select Committee report [Commons]
11.11.2009The impact of the current economic situation on the North West and the Government's response.
Government response. Communities and Local Government; North West Select Committee report [Commons]
02.11.2009Impact of the economic downturn on the south west and the Government's response.
Government response. Communities and Local Government; South West Select Committee report [Commons]
21.07.2009Impact of the current economic situation on the North West and the Government's response.
North West Select Committee report [Commons]
21.07.2009Banking crisis: regulation and supervision.
Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
21.07.2009Banking crisis: dealing with the failure of the UK banks.
Government response. Treasury; Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
21.07.2009Banking crisis: reforming corporate governance and pay in the City.
Government response. Treasury; Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
16.07.2009Impact of the economic downturn on the south west and the Government's response.
South West Select Committee report [Commons]
14.07.2009Banking crisis: international dimensions.
Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
16.06.2009Banking crisis: the impact of the failure of the Icelandic banks.
Government response. Treasury; Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
12.05.2009Banking crisis: reforming corporate governance and pay in the City.
Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
21.04.2009Banking crisis: dealing with the failure of the UK banks.
Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
31.03.2009Banking crisis: the impact of the failure of the Icelandic banks.
Treasury Select Committee report [Commons]
18.03.2009Re-skilling for recovery: after Leitch, implementing skills and training policies.
Government response. Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills; Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Select Committee report [Commons]
15.12.2008Re-skilling for recovery: after Leitch, implementing skills and training policies.
Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Select Committee report [Commons]
09.12.2008EU legislative initiatives in response to the financial turmoil.
European Union Select Committee (HL) report [Lords]