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date: 28 June 2012

embargo: For immediate release

Revised GDP figures lay bare damage to economy says TUC

Commenting on the revised gross domestic product figures published today (Thursday) by the Office for National Statistics, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'Today's figures lay bare the damage caused by the government's austerity programme. The Chancellor has steered the UK back into a double-dip recession for the first time in 40 years, with falling living standards continuing to depress consumer spending.

'This is not how you secure an economic recovery. Continuing with self-defeating austerity is not only choking off recovery but also risks causing permanent long-term damage to the UK economy. A new plan based on investment and jobs is more vital now than ever.'

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Press release (300 words) issued 28 Jun 2012