UK economy grows 0.1% in August despite falling consumer spending
The UK economy expanded by 0.1% in August according to Office for National Statistics figures released before John Healey's first budget.
Manufacturing drives overall growth
Strength in the wider production sector pushed the headline figure up by 0.8%. This increase included manufacturing, mining and energy generation output during the month. The services sector recorded no net growth for August.
Construction and services decline
Construction output fell by 0.2% while consumer-facing services dropped by 0.3%. Sports and amusement activities contributed most to the negative shift in services. Food and drink services also saw a slump.
June figures revised upward
An earlier estimate for June growth was adjusted from 0.3% to 0.4%. Over the three months ending in August, the total economic growth reached 0.7%. Computer programming was identified as a major contributor to this quarterly expansion.
2 outlets, different leads
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The Guardian
UK economy unexpectedly grows 0.1% in August despite fall in consumer spending
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BBC News
UK economy grew 0.1% in August ahead of Healey's first Budget
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2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.