Paris attacks deal fresh blow to struggling eurozone economy

European Central Bank expected to increase quantitative easing as French consumer spending collapses amid 'avalanche' of tourist cancellations

Mario Draghi has signalled fresh help from the European Central Bank for the struggling eurozone economy amid signs that the terrorist attacks in Paris have led to a collapse of spending by French citizens and "an avalanche of cancellations" from tourists.

With the big Paris department stores, Printemps and Galeries Lafayette, reporting footfall down by between 30% and 50%, Draghi all but confirmed that the ECB would step up its efforts to stimulate growth and lower unemployment.