UK consumers turn gloomiest about economy since records began in 1978

British consumers are gloomier about the economy than at any time since records began in 1978, according to a survey published on Wednesday that showed the Iran war and soaring oil prices are taking a heavy toll on British households.

The Economic Optimism Index of market research firm Ipsos, measuring the gap between those who are optimistic about the economy and those who are pessimistic, fell to a record low