21.   Much of Europe and Japan are in recession, with consumer confidence depressed.

22.   The trends in both retail sales and consumer confidence are positive, the report said.

23.   Consumer confidence and house prices had been hit by the events of Black Wednesday, he added.

24.   The economists tell us that one of the core factors hindering recovery from recession is a lack of consumer confidence created by fear of redundancy.

25.   In addition to its obvious unfairness, is there not now evidence that the governments tax increases impel consumer confidence and any hope of a recovery.

26.   Chancellor Norman Lamont is hoping for an end to the downward spiral in house prices to restore consumer confidence in the economy.

27.   Although retailers are bracing for a plunge in consumer confidence, Americans are still spending money at a brisk pace, government data show.

28.   Also today, the University of Michigan reported that consumer confidence in the economy remained strong in early October.

29.   Also today, a report from the University of Michigan suggested consumer confidence in the economy weakened in early August.

30.   Also today, the University of Michigan reported consumer confidence in the economy remained strong in early October.