The United Kingdom is located in the North Sea, to the north of France. The UK population is currently 62.4 million, of which approximately 8 million live in the capital, London. The population is expected to reach 70.2 million by 2030, and the proportion of people aged over 65 is expected to increase from 25% to 35% over the same period. 70% of the population ascribe to one of the Christian religions. The official language is English and the Pound Sterling is the official currency, worth approximately €1.20. The standard rate of VAT is 20%.
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United Kingdom Capital: London
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Population |
62.4 million à 70.8 million (2030) Proportion of people over 65 is 25% à 35% (2030) |
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Language |
English |
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Religion |
70% Protestant or Catholic |
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GDP / head |
€ 27,700 (EU average: € 25,100) |
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Currency |
Pound Sterling (€1.20) |
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VAT |
20% |
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GDP growth (volume)
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0.7% 0.6% in 2012 (f) 1.5% in 2013 (f) |
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Unemployment rate (Dec 2011) |
8.3% (EU average: 10.0%) |
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Inflation rate |
4.5% (EU average: 3.1%) |
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Figures relate to 2011, except where indicated. Source: Eurostat, Searce (2012) |
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The UK has a GDP per capita of €27,400, compared to the EU average of €24,400 in 2010. According to the OECD, the UK economy grew by 0.9% in 2011, and is expected to grow by 0.5% in 2012 and by 1.8% in 2013 (compared to the Eurozone average growth of 1.6%, 0.2% and 1.4% respectively). The inflation rate was 4.8% in 2011, compared to 3% in the EU. The unemployment rate was 8.3%, compared to 9.8% in the EU as a whole in 2011.
British business culture is less formal than it used to be but long term relationships are still highly valued. Punctuality is important and most meetings work to a set agenda. Presentations should be clearly made and be able to be backed up with facts.
Searce
La Mationne
Saint Genès la Tourette
63580 France