Consumers' confidence in the UK economy has fallen in the run up to the general election, new research suggests.
Data from Nationwide reveals public confidence in the economy, employment levels and personal spending dropped in March. Economic optimism dropped by 3% month-on-month, while confidence in the job market fell by 12%.
Consumers were also more uncertain about their ability to make household and other major purchases.
The figure was the most pessimistic monthly outlook since the building society began monitoring confidence in June 2004, Nationwide said.
Today's findings reflect a string of recent surveys. Last month, the Confederation of British Industry reported that retail sales dropped in March as shops continued to struggle to recover from a disappointing Christmas and New Year.
Equity withdrawal and consumer credit borrowing have also seen recent falls.
Stuart Bernau, Nationwide's executive director, said: "With an election looming, more people are unsure whether they will be better or worse in a few months time.
"This is a key moment for all political parties to capture the hearts and minds of voters in the crucial area of their economic well-being."