00:00The IFS has described the economic outlook as grim, lots of hospitality businesses and
00:05individuals concerned about the breathing room. Is it really not very much at all? Aren't you
00:10going to have to be bolder? Well, we have done what we can do to support people. 70,000 businesses,
00:18smaller businesses on our high streets have been lifted out of business rates altogether
00:22and that will help high streets across the country. The British economy is defying the expectations
00:31of forecasters. So this year we will grow more strongly. The growth forecast has been upgraded.
00:37The IMF said last week we're the standout nation for deficit reduction. So it remains difficult
00:43because the world is difficult and the situation in the Middle East has an impact. But I think
00:48people should look at what the Chancellor said yesterday, see a country that has got a platform
00:54of stability in the economy. We're beginning to defy those expectations and I'm confident
01:01that we will go from strength to strength from here.
