Analysts believe the official line on the economy is too optimistic

A European Commission report has offered a mix of scolding, praise and promises of cash to seven ailing European Union economies.

Spain might face uphill battles to meet the demands of supermarket chains and European regulations, which do not apply to North African grower.

The eurozone crisis has not stopped the FTSE, the Cac and the Dax climbing for most of the past three months.