Britain’s economy bounced back in April boosted by stronger consumer spending in shopping and hospitality. Gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.2 percent for the month after a 0.3 percent fall in March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed.
The latest figure is in line with forecasts for the month from economists. ONS director of economic statistics Darren Morgan said: “GDP bounced back after a weak March.
“Bars and pubs had a comparatively strong April, while car sales rebounded and education partially recovered from the effect of the previous month’s strikes.
“These were partially offset by falls in health, which was affected by the junior doctors strikes, along with falls in computer manufacturing and the often-erratic pharmaceuticals industry. House-builders and estate agents also had a poor month.”
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said Britain’s economy is growing and pointed to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) saying that from 2025 the UK will grow faster than Germany, France and Italy.
He added: “But high growth needs low inflation, so we must stick relentlessly to our plan to halve the rate this year to protect family budgets.”
