The pattern of sales recorded by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) has revealed a significant decrease in March. Bill Moyes, director general of the BRC said: 'It is difficult to determine an absolute figure this month due to the difference in timing of Easter. However it is clear that the trend is moving downwards at a worrying rate.' Food and drink had another stable month, with sales in-line with expectations. The timing of Easter did have an impact, especially in related products although cut flowers sold well because of Mother's Day.

Government projections presented at the Budget have pointed to good growth, but the Treasury has deliberately downplayed the importance of demand factors in the economy.

Amanda Aldridge, head of retail at KPMG added: 'A discouraging set of figures, even allowing for the timing of Easter, show that the numerous negative factors affecting the UK consumer are finally biting.' .

Bill Moyes, director general of the BRC said: 'It is difficult to determine an absolute figure this month due to the difference in timing of Easter. However it is clear that the trend is moving downwards at a worrying rate.' Food and drink had another stable month, with sales in-line with expectations. The timing of Easter did have an impact, especially in related products although cut flowers sold well because of Mother's Day.

Government projections presented at the Budget have pointed to good growth, but the Treasury has deliberately downplayed the importance of demand factors in the economy.

Amanda Aldridge, head of retail at KPMG added: 'A discouraging set of figures, even allowing for the timing of Easter, show that the numerous negative factors affecting the UK consumer are finally biting.'

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