The longest-running measure of consumer confidence fell sharply in September, raising concerns about whether government rhetoric about Budget "pain" has spooked people. GfK's Consumer Confidence Index had been recovering after years of rolling crises, higher interest rates and inflation gradually creeping up.

Consumer confidence falls sharply as households ‘nervously’ await Budget - GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index fell seven points to minus 20, with significant drops in predictions for personal finances and the general economy.