IN this space on Friday I wrote about the four key economic indicators that are due to be published in Britain next week and which may have a direct effect on the election campaign. The most important of the four -- for Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter of this year -- will not be out until Friday, although by normal practice the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer are informed about the figures on Thursday.
However, Thursday is also the day of the second TV debate, so Gordon Brown will know something that David Cameron and Nick Clegg do not know.
Mr Clegg, perhaps tipped off by Vince Cable, has noticed this and has proposed that he and Cameron should be made privy to the figures in advance.
It's a tricky situation. If Mr Brown knows that the GDP figures show a further advance from recession he will be able to speak more confidently about future prospects than if they are neutral or negative.
His opponents on the platform will be watching for any hint in his demeanour that tells them which it is. If they have to be cautious because they don't know or can't guess they are at a disadvantage.
The release of the figures on Friday can't be changed because they are market sensitive. I think the prime minister would get a lot of Brown-ie points by offering to forgo his and the Chancellor's right to see the figures until after the debate is over.
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