AIBU to think there are still positive signs in the economy?

[coulditbeme2323]

There is plenty of money out there still.

Now let me add the caveat that I know there are people that are struggling, but I think there are reasons to be positive about the economy and country.

The shops are busy, the coffee shops are busy, the restaurant's are busy, and there is money being spent.

We fancied an impromptu roast out on Sunday, and I had to call 5 pubs before I could get a reservation.

I still think we are a few more years away to see the property market where it once was, but I do think there are signs to be hopeful.

Morning Keir 👋

But not actual facts, which you intend to refute on places you have visited and vibe checks?

The fact that you keep coming back does look a bit like you’re a Gov comms stooge 😅

Unemployment is up, inflation is predicted to rise and the energy price cap is expected to rise by over £200. There really is nothing to be positive about.

Literally just look at our growth.

Even Gemma Collins could do better than this.

I mean I don't know what facts you are asking for?

My town and the towns that surround it are packed.

I have tried to book a last minute trip for bank holiday (South Coast, New Forrest, Hook) and can't find anywhere.

Was in London 3 weeks ago, and was buzzing.

Christmas events I am trying to book already sold out.

I could go on.

Where I am the local costas etc are hooching with people on disability scooters in wolf fleeces. The more middle class venues are all closing down. Some people have disposable money still but it isn’t those on two incomes of £40k-ish who are being squeezed within an inch of their lives by endless taxes.

This is my takeaway from discussing half term with other school Mums. The families that would abroad each May a few years ago, scaled back at staying in the UK, then scaled back to the odd night in a cheap hotel and are now doing a couple of days out and staying home for half term.

The facts I provided, or are you so wedded to your warped reality you don't care about the job losses beyond your bubble?

Of course I care, and I am not doubting you.

I am just saying surely we can talk about the success stories as well.

UK summer “holiday” for the third year in a row for us.

Ugh.

How is it a success? It's what remains. It's the rich pickings of a carcass.

I’ve booked a week away for £400.

under £800 for a week in France and Italy.

Not at all.

No one statistic can be taken is isolation - and every set of figures can be slanted by what’s included. Growth from a low /stagnant point for example is much less impressive than growth from a better starting point. It literally translates as ‘not as shit as it was’

I mean, it’s also a fact that the welfare bill now exceeds the tax take. Hardly viable,solid financial footings but wouldn’t take away from other better statistics if you cherry pick

DH works in a retail shop and he says they are just as busy - same numbers in the store. But that doesn't translate to money in the tills. People come for a browse and then leave. Or buy a very low ticket item whereas before it would be £££ spends.

Of course it is, if there are places doing well that's a success.

No, I'm not playing anymore. Enjoy your rage bait.

I’m struggling to understand. In one post, you say you’re basing your argument on what you say around you, but also say you’re basing it on more than your town. So far, you seem to be basing it on the fact you had to ring 5 pubs to get a Sunday lunch booking and that coffee shops in your town are doing good business. I think your argument is quite weak. Sorry.

It's not rage bait, I don't know why you can't concede places are doing well and be happy for those places.

Have a good day.

So by your argument the fact that there are some successes, that translates as a good economic situation overall?

like because there are some millionaires in the country, we must all be rich?

You’re just focusing on cities and venues used by rich people, will always be fine and have money to spend no matter what happens to the economy. That is not representative of the U.K. at all.

Maybe! I’m a left wing voter, and do like Labour, but I think the economy has performed really poorly under them recently.

I think spending is good regardless.

If places are busy (wealthy area) or otherwise that creates jobs for waiting staff, cooks, cleaners, delievery drivers, which can only be a good thing.

Now I am of course not saying all areas are the same, but they never have been.