UK economy shows greatest signs of stress since 2012

Downturn evidence mounts as poll has employer pessimism at highest for six years

The British economy is showing the greatest signs of stress since the eurozone crisis and fears of a double-dip recession six years ago, as worrying reports show the steepest fall in manufacturing output and the greatest degrees of pessimism among employers since 2012.

Concerns over Brexit and a slowdown for high street spending are among the major factors contributing towards 2018 being the worst time in six years for British firms planning to take on new staff, according to a closely watched survey compiled by the recruitment firm ManpowerGroup.

Related: UK manufacturing has largest monthly fall in output for five years