Weak UK economy in Q1, contracts in March due to strikes

The UK economy experienced weak growth in the first quarter of the year, with a contraction in March attributed to strike action, according to the latest statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The economy saw a modest 0.1% growth between January and March. However, in March, it contracted by 0.3%, primarily due to poor car sales and a struggling retail sector. Sectors like IT and construction contributed to overall growth, while health, education, and public administration faced declines, with “these sectors affected by strikes.”

Amidst concerns about the fragile state of the UK economy, the Bank of England raised interest rates from 4.25% to 4.5% to combat rising inflation. Business leaders expressed concerns about the impact of further rate increases on businesses already grappling with challenges like inflation, energy price shocks, and a tight labour market.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt emphasised the need to maintain competitive taxes, labour supply, and productivity to support the government’s growth priorities. However, the opposition criticised the Conservative government’s low growth record. These figures underscore the importance of addressing key issues affecting businesses, including inflation and labour market dynamics, to strengthen the UK economy.