Leaders in downturn concern race

The party leaders are anxious to show they are listening to business

Britain's political leaders have hit the road in an attempt to show their concern about the economic downturn.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown is travelling to Swindon and South Wales on the final leg of a regional tour.

Tory leader David Cameron travels to north-east England to meet bosses of car maker Nissan UK, which is cutting 1,200 jobs.

And Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg is visiting a metal manufacturer in his Sheffield constituency.

Mr Brown is on the last leg of a three-day regional tour, which has seen him visit the East Midlands, West Midlands and Derby.

On a visit to a community school in Swindon, he will explain government plans to spend