The UK economy marginally grew over the first quarter of the year, according to official data, further easing concerns that the UK could soon enter a recession.
UK gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.1% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed.
But it came after a 0.3% decrease in March, driven by falls for the retail and wholesale sectors, while the healthcare sector was also impacted by strike action.
Economists had predicted flat growth in March and a 0.1% increase for the first quarter of 2023.
ONS director of economic statistics Darren Morgan said: “Despite the UK economy contracting in March, GDP grew a little over the first quarter as a whole.
“The fall in March was driven by widespread decreases across the services sector.
“Despite the launch of new number plates, cars sales were low by historic standards – continuing the trend seen since the start of the pandemic – with warehousing, distribution and retail also having a poor month.”
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