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publication date: Sep 13, 2010
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author/source: Robin Roberts
Uncertainty is slowing the pace of recovery for the global economy more than expected, says the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.
OECD's latest assessment predicts the economies of the Group of Seven countries will expand by an annualized 1.5% in the second half of 2010, down from May's estimate of 1.75%. The organization's Chief Economist Pier Carlo Padoan says overall financial conditions have stabilized, growth remains strong in emerging markets such as China and India and capital spending is not likely to decline. But he also notes that a weak housing market and job market worries continue to dampen consumer spending. Driver safety may not be the first thing you think of when heading off to university, but the Institute of Advanced Motorists has urged students to prepare properly before moving their worldly possessions across the country this month. Peter Rodger, IAM Head of Driving Standards, said, "The roads are already filling up with heavily-laden, small, second-hand cars, and student drivers face risks such as fatigue, objects blocking their view and unfamiliar roads. When you're packing a car with enough stuff to last you a year it's easy to lose interest and throw the last few small items in loose. But bad packing can be dangerous if you brake, and you could be prosecuted if your baggage looks unsecure" It's time for government to recognise freight's importance to the economy, protect rail freight investment and keep track access charges down. These are the three calls to action that the Freight Transport Association has issued to government following Sir Roy McNulty's Rail Value for Money study. James Hookham, FTA's MD of Policy and Communications, said, "Historically, rail freight has been a poor relation to the politically more visible needs of passenger rail. This is demonstrably unfair; for every two-and-a-half passengers, one tonne of freight is moved. Rail freight already plays a key role in delivering a sustainable supply chain, but with greater investment and a more considered, political approach it can achieve so much more." Targeting drink and drug drivers may suffer if cuts to police budgets affect frontline staff, according to the AA President, in his evidence to the Commons Transport Select Committee to be given tomorrow. In his evidence to the Committee Inquiry into the Drink and Drug Driving Laws, Edmund King, AA President, will say: "The Automobile Association has long been highlighting the hidden problems of drugs and driving. The North report reflected many AA recommendations and made use of our AA/Populus panel results to ascertain the views of the motoring public. Our members want action on drug driving and also support a reduction in the drink drive limit together with a 12 month ban." |
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