This document, from SEEDA's Research & Economics team, presents a latest review of the South East economy in the context of the UK. It covers: a UK overview and outlook; the South East overview and outlook; and implications of the current slowdown for RES targets.

The UK overview and outlook - Labour market remains tight; Credit crunch impacts on business activity; Consensus GDP forecast points to lower growth this year and in 2009; A surge in oil and commodity prices – a risk to UK inflation.

The South East overview and Outlook - Labour market tightening? Slower growth likely this year and in 2009; Sectors that could be affected; Is the manufacturing sector undergoing a revival? The latest independent forecasts for the economy.

Implications of the current slowdown for RES targets - The Headline Targets; Global Competitiveness Objective; Smart Growth Objective; Sustainable Prosperity Objective.