Health check for economy

Inflation figures, unemployment statistics and the latest retail sales data will provide an insight into the health of Britain's economy next week.

The strength of the UK's economic recovery fell under increased scrutiny this week when the Bank of England slashed its growth forecasts. The Bank was the latest body to revise its outlook for the country, following on from the Office for Budget Responsibility, International Monetary Fund and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Elsewhere, minutes of the Bank's monetary policy committee are expected to reveal no change in the voting position over interest rates.