Earlier today, the subject was blogs.  Now we’re on to social networks.  It seems people in the UK are becoming quite fond of the things, as statistics in two critical areas has jumped since last year.

Increases of 10 or 20 percent might turn a few heads.  Instead, "60% of respondents to an early-2008 survey said they had created a social network profile, up from 27% in 2007," according to a statement from eMarketer and Research and Markets.  And that sort of rise is attracting cash.

 Bebo

"Online social network ad spending has moved at a slower pace than consumer adoption, but things are picking up," the report continues.  "This year spending is expected to rise 77% to 115 million ($225 million)."  By 2012, a full $533 million should flood the market.

The near-simultaneous news of the UK’s interest in blogs and news sites might make this growth look less extraordinary.  It’s still interesting to see users and money rushing into the market, though, and successes in other areas don’t really detract from these stats.

Also, who knows – maybe this social networking news will make some people feel better about AOL’s purchase of Bebo.  Hat tip to Nathania Johnson.