The UK economy grew for the first time in three months in November, according to
the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
ONS figures showed an expansion of 0.1% in GDP after the economy shrank in each
of the two previous months.
But the figure was lower than economists had expected, with declines in
manufacturing and business rentals and leasing.
Figures showed the services sector drove the marginal growth in November, with
pubs, restaurants and IT companies performing well.
UK inflation dipped in December for the first time in three months, the ONS
reported.
Prices rose 2.5% in the year to December, down from 2.6% the month before, ONS
said.
The ONS said while hotel prices and tobacco prices had fallen last month, the
decreases were offset by the cost of fuel and second-hand cars rising.
Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist said:
'After a string of disappointing data, it's good to see that growth returned
to positive territory in November, though the economy is still only on track
for a very modest expansion at best over the final quarter of last
year.
'In the wake of the Autumn Budget a mood of caution seems to have settled
over UK businesses. Many firms are entering 2025 with a focus on reducing
operational expenditure, which is likely to weigh on pay, hiring and
investment in the months ahead.
'The government can help shift the UK's economic narrative with more
determined focus on measures that could underpin growth.'
Internet link: ONS ONS CBI