Six out of ten Spanish people so they say intend to spend the same or more money on presents this Christmas than they did last Christmas.This despite the economic crisis.The other 40% are those without children and in the 16-24 year old bracket.They say that they will spend less money this Christmas.This latter group say that they will spend less than 150 euros on gifts for friends and relatives.

People with families on average will spend more than 250 euros .Last year however ,when the crunch was just beginning to be felt 9% of those people asked said that they had spent more than 600 euros on gifts.According to surveys each person spends over 200 euros on children,over 100 euros on their partner and just under 100 euros on parents and in-laws.

Most people say that if they have to cut back then it will be on gifts for relatives and friends.Others will cut back on party clothes,fewer drinks,fewer visits to the cinema and theatre,less trips.14% actually said that they would get into debt rather than do without.

This survey has been done throughout Europe and the average amount spent by each family in Europe this Christmas will be 583 euros.