The Latest Breaking News from Office for National Statistics

Triple boost for Rachel Reeves with retail sales jump, exports rise and record public finances surplus

Shoppers returned to spending in the New Year and the Treasury raked in billions more than expected in tax

Evening Standard · Feb 20

‘Unprecedented’ demand for jewellery helps retail sales surge in January

The ONS said the total volume of retail sales rose by 1.8% in January, up from growth of 0.4% in December.

Evening Standard · Feb 20

Government posts record borrowing surplus in boost for Chancellor

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said there was a public sector net borrowing surplus of £30.4 billion in January.

Evening Standard · Feb 20

UK house prices rise by 2.4% annually typically but fall by 1% in London

Increased supply, low buyer demand and stretched affordability in London are keeping a lid on prices, one housing market expert said.

The Independent UK · Feb 18

London house prices fall year on year as buyers cautious and affordability remains stretched

Increased supply, low buyer demand and stretched affordability in London are keeping a lid on prices

Evening Standard · Feb 18

Inflation falls to 3% boosting chance of interest rate cuts

The rate of Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation decreased to a 10-month-low of 3% in January from 3.4% in December.

Evening Standard · Feb 18

Inflation slows to 10-month low amid easing petrol and food costs

The rate of Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation decreased to 3% in January from 3.4% in December.

The Independent UK · Feb 18

UK inflation falls to 3%, boosting hopes of early cut in interest rates

January annual drop is lowest level since March 2025, although still above Bank of England’s 2% target

The Guardian - UK · Feb 18

Jobs crisis in London: Women hardest hit by soaring unemployment with 51,000 more out of work in four months

The increase is significantly higher than the 27,000 jobless rise for men

Evening Standard · Feb 18

Inflation expected to fall to lowest level for nearly a year – what does this mean for interest rates?

The figures are likely to reinforce expectations of another interest rate cut, possibly as soon as next month

The Independent UK · Feb 17