Economic data is at least a brief distraction from Brexit

Figures for wages, inflation and consumer spending, due this week, are likely to reinforce the view that the British economy is far from booming

The ability of the British economy to improve the living standards of workers will come back under the microscope this week, when the latest figures for wages, employment and inflation are revealed by government statisticians.

The Bank of England reckons higher wages are just around the corner, helped by the lowest rate of unemployment since the mid-1970s, yet economists are doubtful there will be much positive news just yet. While the economy has gathered pace in recent months, helped by the warmer weather, the royal wedding and the World Cup, there has been little evidence so far of the spoils being shared through pay increases.

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