Marks & Spencer figures out Wedneday

Retail stocks have dominated the London agenda in recent days and this week will be no exception when some of the sector’s biggest British names report Christmas sales.

The mood of Britain's consumers should then be easier to judge with investors hoping that Dixons’ recent profits warning proves to be a one-off.

Trading figures from Marks & Spencer on Wednesday should be one of the most keenly watched in the retail sector as analysts check to see if the high street giant has maintained the recovery first seen a year ago.

The Christmas trading season will also be a first major test for Roger Holmes, who took over as chief executive from chairman Luc Vandevelde in September.

Analysts believe it is unlikely that M&S will match the growth rates seen in its most recent quarter and NatWest Stockbrokers is forecasting Christmas trading growth of 7% in general merchandising and 3.5% in food.