Jobs in the UK

The UK economy’s performance in recent years has been impressive: London remains the economic heartbeat of Western Europe and one of the great trading and finance capitals of the world. The currency (pound) rates very well against the US dollar and unemployment rates remain low.

GDP growth dropped in 2001-03 as a result of (among other factors) a global downturn and the high value of the pound. Nevertheless, the UK economy remains one of the strongest in Europe and the world; inflation, interest rates, and unemployment rates are low compared to those on the continent. This comparatively good economic performance has complicated the current Labour government's efforts (led by Prime Minister Tony Blair) for Britain to join the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). Many Britons are however opposed to the UK joining the EMU for the reason that the pound is doing well as it is - the falling value of the Euro has not helped matters. The current government is speeding up the improvement of transport, education and health services, and is able to do so by increasing tax rates.