The economic recovery in the UK is expected to be slow and sluggish this year, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has said.
According to Richard Lambert, director general of the employers' group, the economy will not pick up until the middle of next year.
The CBI has predicted the country's economy will increase by no more than one per cent in 2010 and growth in consumer spending will stay subdued this year.
This week it has also been revealed that the pound has fallen against the dollar and euro.
"The economic outlook is improving, but the lack of a clear driver for growth will make for a bumpy ride in the months ahead," Mr Lambert said.
He also believes that by 2016 the government should set out a credible plan to balance the books.
The CBI works with the UK government, international legislators and policy-makers to help UK firms compete effectively.
