UK economy emerges from recession

We're out of recession, quip the economists. They were touting this last night. Actually, figures showed the economy had grown by a weaker-than-expected 0.1% in the last three months of 2009. Miniscule, I'd say, but at least it's going in the right direction.

Such a plus figure of tiny proportions needs working on. I have in mind Casanova knocking on the Old Lady of Threadneedle Street's door and asking if she wants to come out for a good time. She's only opened it a millimetre - giving him enough space to squint at her finery.

It's going to be hard work keeping up the strength to get the public finances in order. Oh, well!