The UK economy showed no growth in April, largely attributed to unusually wet weather impacting consumer spending. This outcome, recorded by the Office for
National Statistics (ONS), matched economists' predictions.
This stagnation follows the UK economy's rapid growth from January to March, the fastest in two years, which helped the country emerge from the recession experienced in the latter half of the previous year.
With a general election scheduled for 4 July, economic performance is a significant focus for political parties. Although spending on services increased for the fourth consecutive month, declines in both production and the construction industry offset these gains.
In March, the UK's gross domestic product (GDP)—the total value of goods and services produced—rose by 0.4%. However, the ONS reported that the services sector's performance was mixed in April. The information, communication, and scientific sector experienced the most growth, while retail trade declined. Retailers cited the above-average rainfall as a factor that reduced their output.
Consumer service output dropped by 0.7%, with many individuals struggling with high living costs. Economists caution against overemphasizing monthly economic fluctuations due to potential influences like weather or holiday timings. Nonetheless, the economy grew by 0.7% over the three months leading up to April.
These figures will be crucial for the Bank of England, which meets next Thursday to decide on interest rate policies. Rising energy and food costs, along with increased mortgage payments due to higher interest rates, continue to strain many households.
The Impact of GDP on Everyday Life
Mark Breen, owner of the Old Kent Roastery coffee shop in Margate, has felt the effects of rising prices. Despite increased operational costs, Breen has not raised his prices, fearing customer loss.
"We get some people, especially in the winter, they come in and have one coffee and sit here all day. It’s the way of life at the moment; people can’t afford to buy things," he said. "I’m lucky, I’ve got a business. We’re surviving, but a lot of people are not.”
The latest economic data comes amidst a campaign period where economic promises are heavily emphasized. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt expressed optimism, stating the data indicates the economy "is turning a corner" and highlighting the Conservative plan to reduce taxes on work, homes, and pensions.
In contrast, Labour’s Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves pointed to the stagnant April figures as evidence of the negative impact of fourteen years of Conservative policies. Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesperson Sarah Olney remarked, "As Rishi Sunak's time as prime minister peters out, so does the UK's economic growth." Photo by Jim Goldsmith, Wikimedia commons.