The public doubts the truth of recent government statistics showing that consumption of alcopops is falling and that tourist numbers are rising. An Office for National Statistics survey shows that only 17% of us believe that official figures are produced without political interference or “spin”, especially if they claim to showcase “good news” which seems to justify current government policy. Other statistics received with scepticism claim to show a rise in recycling, falling unemployment and increasing support for charities. Financial Times 30/12/06 page 3