The UK returned to growth in August with growth of 0.2% following a bounce back in construction and a strong month for accountancy, manufacturers and retail businesses.
But economic growth is still weaker compared with the first half of the year, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “With GDP rising 0.2% in the three months to August, as well as in the month itself, growth lifted at the end of summer after flatlining in the previous months. Services continued their expansion, while both construction and production bounced back after a poor July.
“While signs of growth are to be welcomed, uncertainty has mounted among businesses. Our most recent Quarterly Economic Survey has shown that following a strong start to the year, business confidence has stalled amid growing anxiety about business taxation.
“The upcoming budget will be a critical moment. Businesses understand the fiscal backdrop the Government is facing and the need to address public finances, but that must not be at the expense of investment and growth.”
More detail on the ONS data can be found here.
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