UK economy flatlines unexpectedly in January

Most economists had expected growth of 0.2% in January (Alamy/PA) - (Alamy/PA)

The UK economy unexpectedly stalled in January following meagre growth at the end of last year, official figures have shown, amid fears Britain is heading for a hit from the Iran conflict as prices are sent soaring.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said there was zero growth in gross domestic product (GDP) in January.