Credit fears delay Christmas cheer

AQA 63336 reveals what's on Brits' minds as it passes 16 million questions

4 December 2008

AQA 63336 are used to handling the nation's Christmas queries, but in the lead up to this year's festivities the UK's favourite Q&A text service have instead been hit with a staggering 2100% rise in credit–crunch questions. Whereas festive Brits typically inundate AQA 63336 with questions on tinsel, presents and St. Nick himself, in 2008 the current economic crisis is weighing more heavily on the nation's mind.

Having answered 16 million texts in four and a half years, AQA 63336 have seen first hand how the economic downturn has affected what Brits are seeking the answers to, never more noticeable that in the lead up to Christmas. "What brand of sherry would impress Santa?" was typical in November last year, but now "My food bill's gone up so much. What can I do?" is more often the case.

Paul Cockerton, Communications Director at AQA 63336 said "It's clear from questions texted to AQA 63336 that people have been putting off Christmas for as long as possible. Normally in November our customers start searching for the perfect gift for friends and family, but we've only just started seeing these questions come in. In general people are being much more resourceful and watching their pennies – for example we have seen a 31% rise in people asking about drinking and partying at home, rather than going out to increasingly expensive pubs and clubs."

The 16th million question was "What is more fun to fly. An RC plane or helicopter?" AQA's answer was "A radio controlled helicopter is more fun to fly than a plane. As it's harder to master, the fun comes in the trying. Planes are too straightforward."

Some of the questions received from credit–crunched Brits include:

What is the credit crunch?

A credit crunch is a sudden reduction in the availability of credit or loans, due to perceived risk. They happen when markets are about to decline.

How can I save money?

To save money take packed lunches to work, take free newspapers when they are handed out, check out charity shops and invite friends round more often.

My food bill's gone up so much. What can I do?

Buy only the food you need. When cooking, make extra and eat it another night. Make your own lunches. This will save you money on your food bills.

Are pigeons affected by credit crunch?

Pigeons haven't been affected by the credit crunch as they tend not to apply for mortgages. There are less of them due to a population cull in London.

Where on earth am I spending all this money?

Money is frequently spent on small things. For 1 week to keep a list of everything that you spend. This will identify areas where you can save money.

My credit card bills keep mounting – how can I control my spending?

The old adage is that cash is king. Set yourself a budget, take the money out at the beginning of the week, and restrict yourself to spending no more.

How many times your annual salary can you normally borrow for a mortgage?

A mortgage lender would typically allow you to borrow 3.5 times your annual salary, although some organisations will offer you 5 times a single salary.

Why am I so skint?

You are so skint due to your unhealthy obsession with appearing generous. People love you for who you are, not how much you spend on them.

What country can I move to and become an instant millionaire?

If you can turn a blind eye to Mugabe's oppressive regime, go to Zimbabwe. £38.25 is $Z1m. Before 1 Aug 2008, you'd have got $Z10 quadrillion for £38.25.

Has anyone benefited from the credit crunch?

Companies benefiting from the credit crunch are fast food restaurants, shoe repairers, budget supermarkets, cinemas, video shops & maternity retailers.

Is that 20p own brand lager any good? Times are tight!

At that price, you can't knock it, even if the lager does eat away at your teeth, give you a screaming headache and make you dance like John Sergeant.

Notes to Editors:

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