How do you cut deficit and protect jobs?

Marf’s cartoon this afternoon strikingly illustrates what is becoming the government’s biggest challenge. This week’s numbers are shocking and the phrase “worst since 1994” is going to be heard time and time again.

But what’s the answer given the need to maintain the confidence of the markets through the deficit reduction programme?

The coalition is helped by Labour’s inability at the moment to articulate a plan that sounds plausible. But ministers cannot assume that that will last for long. Labour, though, have to be careful about not being seen to be “talking down the economy”.

If you would like to purchase one of Marf’s prints, please contact her at marfcartoons@btinternet.com

@MikeSmithsonPB