Survey critical of spending plans

NEW YORK: Two-thirds of people believe "massive government spending" to combat the financial crisis shows a lack of clear direction, according to a poll of nations representing 75 percent of the global economy issued yesterday.

The Ipsos/Reuters survey also found that 60 percent of the people in the 23 countries polled say increased government regulation will stifle economic growth.

Clifford Young of Ipsos Global Public Affairs, the international market research and polling company that carried out the online poll, said the survey showed opinions were mixed with a majority still wanting more government action on the economic downturn despite their concerns.