The index, which is published jointly with the Nuremberg Institute for Market Decisions, rated UK consumer confidence at an overall score of -25, with four measures down and one flat compared with last month’s figures.

Consumer confidence in the general economic situation over the past year was down eight points to -51, while expectations for the economy over the year ahead dropped six points to -43.

Respondents ranked their personal financial situation over the past year at -11, four points lower than in March, while for the year ahead there was five-point fall to -4.

The major purchase index, which covers whether the time is right to make a major purchase, remained flat compared to March, with an overall score of -18.

The savings index, which covers whether now is a good time to save money, was up five points to a positive score of 32.

The results are based on a nationally representative survey of 2,005 UK adults, with interviewing carried out between 1^st April and 15^th April.

Neil Bellamy, consumer insights director at GfK, said: “Everyone is grappling with rapid price rises, especially at the fuel pumps, which are taking a dent out of household budgets, and people know further price hikes are coming. The only measure to go up is our savings index, often an indication that people are concerned about what lies ahead, so those who can are building contingency funds.

“Consumer confidence is deteriorating sharply, with fuel prices and threats of more energy price increases acting as constant reminders of inflation. While the Gulf crisis is intensifying pressures, much of the current strain reflects earlier domestic cost increases. How long can all this disruption and pain continue?”