WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Economic conditions in the United States are progressing modestly, the Federal Reserve said on Wednesday in its latest survey on business conditions around the nation.

    The survey, known as Beige Book, was based on economic information supplied by the Fed's 12 regional banks and collected before Nov. 20, and struck a slightly more positive tone than the last survey, which was released on Oct. 21.

    The snapshot of economic conditions found that most districts "have generally improved modestly since the last report."

    Eight Districts indicated some pickup in activity or improvement in conditions, while the remaining four -- Philadelphia, Cleveland, Richmond, and Atlanta -- reported that "conditions were little changed and/or mixed."

    Consumer spending strengthened since the last report, with sales of both general merchandise and autos improving across much of the country.

    Activity in the service sector generally picked up since the last report, though results were mixed across districts and across service industries.

    In addition, most districts reported mixed to moderately improving manufacturing conditions since the last report.

    Meanwhile, labor market conditions remained weak since the last report, with further layoffs, sluggish hiring, and high levels of unemployment in most districts.

    The survey summarizes comments received from business and other contacts outside the Fed and is not a commentary on the views of Fed officials.

    But its findings will figure into discussions when Fed policymakers meet to consider their stance on interest rates and other monetary issues on Dec. 15-16.

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