UK Economy Downturn "Frightening"...

Business leaders have painted a bleak picture of the UK economy, with a survey suggesting the end of 2008 saw a "frightening deterioration".
More from the BBC here...

Bank reduces rate to 1.5%

Monetary Policy
The Bank of England cut interest rates again this month in an attempt to avert deflation and stimulate growth.
Read the official press release here...

However, there is growing debate over whether these cuts are having any effect.
Read some commentary from the Guardian here...

Higher Economics January Plan (Mr Irvine)

Click on the image to view our plan for January, which includes a topic entitled Role of Government and, of course, the prelim examination on January 23rd.

2008: The Year Britain's Bubble Burst...

Financial Crisis

This BBC Panorama, which follows Robert Peston's reporting on the extraordinary financial crisis of 2008, is available to view on iplayer. Running time: 30 min.

view film...

Slovakia joins the Eurozone

Exchange Rates

Slovakia has become the 16th country to adopt the Euro as their national currency.

read more...

Cameron attacks VAT cut...

Fiscal Policy

David Cameron has claimed that the cut in VAT from 17.5% to 15% has had no effect and is a waste of money. The government basically argues that they had to do something to stimulate spending.

read more...

Bank set to cut rates again - but how low will they go?

Monetary Policy
The UK interest rate could drop to its lowest level in over 300 years as the Bank of England fights recession and the prospect of deflation.
read more...