Latest national spending habits: smart phones, 'apps' and online dating

The latest ONS survey published this week on the nation's spending habits shows the impact of new technology and the Internet.

Added to the British shopping basket of goods and services (used by ONS to calculate UK inflation rates) are smart phones and 'apps' which are replacing mobile phone downloads like ringtones and wallpaper. Also in the basket for the first time are online dating agency fees with the Internet fast becoming the new way to find love.

Bad news for dogs like me. Instead of going out for walks, householders are spending their money on giant TV sets, 'home cinema' systems, sparkling wine and ready-meals.

Frankly, I'd like to see more dog food in the basket – Bakers Complete and Beef and Lamb Pedigree Chum please.

Blog dog
Arthur

Give SMEs a fair share of public sector contracts

I’m happy to learn that our PM David Cameron sees SMEs as key to UK plc’s economic recovery. Also delighted that he’s pledged to help SMEs – including hard-working PR dogs like me - win a fair share of public sector contracts. Considering that SMEs account for over 50% of the UK business economy, but only win around 8% of the public sector contracts, it’s clear the current system is grossly unfair. I hope Mr Cameron in the spirit of ‘localism’ is prepared to follow through on his rhetoric, take action and give SMEs a fighting chance by cutting the ridiculously expensive, pointless and wasteful government procurement process. Of course, the question is: can he cut through all the government red tape to make it happen?