Ipsos's monthly Issues Index shows that three in ten respondents (30%) are concerned about Unemployment, a five point increase on last month and the highest level of concern measured since December 1998. This comes after the release of ONS figures showing the number of unemployed at 2.435 million - the highest figure since 1995.
Newly released data from a June survey for the public sector trade union UNISON shows that the NHS remains a key election issue, despite the recession. Ninety-six per cent of the public say the NHS will be an important factor in deciding how they vote at the next general election. This compares to the economy (important for 93%), crime (92%), public services (85%), schools (85%) and Britain's relationship with Europe (70%).
The aim of the research was to provide an understanding of the nature and drivers of civil litigants' views and experiences of the Sheriff Courts in Scotland.
As has been the case since September 2008, the economy is the most important issue facing the country today according to the public. Over half (55%) place it amongst the most important issues, a similar percentage to the number who cited this issue last month (54%).
Indeed, the economy shows no sign of being knocked off the top spot - the second highest issue (race relations/immigration) is cited as an important issue by only half as many respondents (27%).
Ipsos's July Political Monitor (carried out by telephone between 17-19 July among 1,012 British adults aged 18 and over) shows that among those absolutely certain to vote, the Conservative Party lead the Labour Party by 16 points.
Ipsos's June Issues Index shows that, according to the public, the economy remains the most important issue facing the country, as has been the case since September of last year. Over half (54%) see it is an important issue, though this represents a drop of five percentage points since May. This is also a drop of sixteen percentage points since January, when seven in ten (70%) saw it as among the most important issues.
