Shopping and hospitality help UK economy return to growth

UK gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.2% for the month after a 0.3% fall in March.

UK economy returns to growth as shopping and hospitality spending rises, ONS findsiStock

The UK economy bounced back in April after it was boosted by stronger consumer spending in shopping and hospitality.

UK gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.2% for the month after a 0.3% fall in March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed.

The latest figure was 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.”

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