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More than half of Britons think the economy will go downhill this year, an exclusive poll reveals today - days before Chancellor Philip Hammond’s first Spring Statement.

Some 54 per cent think things will get worse, while just 22 per cent think the economy will improve, found Ipsos MORI.

The survey finds the two main parties running neck-and-neck at 43 per cent for the Conservatives and 42 for Labour.

However, Sir Vince Cable’s Liberal Democrats have slumped to just six per cent on the eve of their annual spring conference this weekend.

And Ukip, which last week ousted Henry Bolton as leader, has been reduced to two per cent.

Theresa May’s ratings have risen slightly over recent weeks while Jeremy Corbyn’s have dipped.

Some 41 per cent are “satisfied” with Mrs May, which is up three points since January, while 52 per cent are dissatisfied, which is down three points.

For Mr Corbyn, 37 per cent say he is doing well, which is down a point, and 52 per cent badly, up three.

Gideon Skinner, of Ipsos MORI, said: “The two main parties continue to dominate, even though neither has been able to build a clear lead.

“Both rely on distinct blocs for their support – young people for Labour and older voters for the Conservatives, while the middle-aged are split – and so far there is little sign of much switching between the two.”

The Chancellor’s statement on Tuesday setting out forecasts for growth and borrowing will be eagerly analysed for signs of how Brexit and the recent bad weather have affected UK prospects.

Mr Hammond has played down expectations of any glitz in his statement, which replaces the old spring Budget.

Ipsos MORI interviewed 1,012 adults across GB by telephone from March 2 to 7. Data are weighted. Details at www.ipsos-mori.com