The ratings on the United Kingdom are supported by: A wealthy, highly diversified, export oriented economy, which ranks among the top five in the world and which has generated a steady GDP growth rate of 2.8% annually between 1995 and 2000; Robust fiscal performance, which has led to substantially reduced general government debt levels, to 43% of GDP in 2001 from 55% of GDP in 1996, and increased fiscal flexibility; A long-standing stable democracy; and Low inflation, supported by the Bank of England's operational independence. The U.K. is on track to record its 10th year of uninterrupted economic growth since the 1991 recession, and unemployment has fallen to historical lows. A vibrant economy has contributed to improved fiscal performance, but
