UK economy grew by only 0.1% in November

Shoppers and pedestrians pass under the Christmas lights on Oxford Street, London, in November 2022. Photograph: Tolga Akmen/EPA

The UK economy unexpectedly grew by 0.1% in November as consumers headed to the shops in the run-up to Christmas and pubs and bars enjoyed a boost from the men’s World Cup.

Raising the government’s chances of avoiding a long recession, City economists said hard-pressed consumers had proved more resilient than forecast despite the cost of living crisis.