UK economy grew 0.6% between January and March
The UK economy expanded 0.6% in the first quarter compared with the previous three months, the Office for National Statistics said. Growth was led by the services sector and a rebound in exports. Monthly data also confirmed an unexpected 0.3% expansion in March.
The Office for National Statistics said the United Kingdom's economy grew 0.6% in the January-to-March period compared with the previous quarter. The figure exceeded the 0.4% growth that economists had forecast and made Britain one of the fastest-expanding major economies in the G7.
The services sector was the main driver of growth, with professional services, retail and health care all posting solid gains. Industrial production rose 0.7%, while construction contracted slightly. Exports rose 1.9%, supported by a weaker pound, contributing significantly to the headline number. Consumer spending grew more slowly than expected over the same period.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the data as evidence that the government's economic strategy was bearing fruit. However, the ONS warned that growth could slow in coming quarters due to higher energy prices linked to the Middle East conflict and the impact of US tariffs. The Bank of England may take a more cautious stance on rate cuts at its next meeting.
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