- Official figures from the Office for National Statistics show the UK economy grew by 0.4 per cent in July, defying economist expectations of zero growth.
- Growth was predominantly driven by a 0.6 per cent rise in the services sector, with increased adoption of artificial intelligence and computer programming making key contributions.
- Transport secretary Heidi Alexander welcomed the economic expansion as good news but emphasised that the government would not be complacent ahead of the mid-October Budget.
- The British Chambers of Commerce urged the Chancellor to support businesses in the upcoming Budget through tax cuts, energy relief, and reduced employer costs.
- Economists predict the Bank of England will maintain interest rates at 3.75 per cent at its next meeting despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.
IN FULL
UK economy unexpectedly grows 0.4% in July in boost for Burnham
