Economic problems in the UK are contributing to a surge in the number of people moving abroad.

According to the Office for National Statistics, more than 200,000 British nationals chose to pack their bags and relocate in 2006 - a record amount under the current measuring system.

However, BuyAssociation has revealed that during the last year, it has seen a seven per cent increase in the number of enquiries into emigrating to another country.

Speaking to the Telegraph, property editor Paul Collins said this is partly because of the continuing economic difficulties in Britain.

Mr Collins said the ongoing financial problems have led to many people making "decisions about their future that they have been considering for some time".

He added that a growing number of people are choosing to settle in non-European destinations, such as Morocco.

The country was said to offer attractions such as new property developments and good governance.

This comes after FinancialAdvice.co.uk said more and more expats from the UK are moving to long-haul destinations.