The Prime Minister has emphasised the importance of maintaining a globally consistent approach to economic recovery and called on leaders to make the opening up of trade a key deliverable before the next G20 summit in June.

Brown also said the Government would continue to do "whatever it takes" to protect the recovery of the UK economy and, with reference to its fiscal stimulus package, said that now was not the time to change course from the measures it was following.

In an apparent attack on the Conservative plans to cut to Labour’s fiscal stimulus measures if they get into power, Brown said "now is no time to turn back".

“The stakes are high,” said Brown. “We dare not risk the recovery. For our task above all else is to preserve and expand the jobs - and lift the standards of life - of the British people.

“We are weathering the storm; now is no time to turn back. We will hold to our course. And we will complete this mission.

“We have got through this storm together but there are still substantial risks ahead. There will be bumps in the road. And I believe the only way to overcome them is by displaying the same strength and resolve as we did during the crisis.”

Brown added that the Budget, which will be held on 24 March, would focus on "protecting and advancing the recovery".