Consumer choice attacked by the Fabian Society

Left-wing think tank the Fabian Society has challenged the idea that growth in consumer consumption and choice is necessarily a good thing.

In a report published earlier this week, it said that increased consumer choice and rising GDP in developed economies could be associated with a declining quality of life.

For example, the society said the wide choice of foods available all year round in major supermarkets had a negative impact on the environment, because they were transported over long distances.

Instead, the society says, the Government should focus on clean air, less traffic on the streets and good schools. It argues there is no causal link between wealth and happiness.