UK economy returns to growth with 0.2% expansion

There was good news for UK PLC as its economy grew slightly in April by 0.2% after a narrow contraction in March, according to official figures.

It was a welcome boost after UK economic output fell in In March by 0.3%

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said it now estimated monthly GDP as being 0.3% above its pre-coronavirus levels.

GDP grew by 0.1% in the three months to April 2023 compared with the three months to January 2023, the ONS said. 

Economic growth was mainly driven by a 0.3% growth in the services sector in April after a 0.5% drop the previous month. Overall the sector fell by 0.1% in the first quarter to April 2023 compared with the previous quarter.

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.” 

He added:“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.”