The UK economy unexpectedly expanded by 0.5% in February, according to official figures, in a boost for Rachel Reeves before an expected downturn triggered by Donald Trump’s tariff war.
Reversing a modest fall in January, the increase in gross domestic product in February could mark the last period of expansion before the threat of a global trade war dampens business investment and consumer spending.
A poll of City economists had expected the economy to grow by 0.1% in February.
This month, consumers face inflation-busting utility bill and council tax increases while employers must cope with £25bn of tax rises.
More details soon …