UK economy shrinks for first time in eight months in April

The UK economy contracted by 0.1% in April, the first decline in eight months, driven by a fall in services. The ONS reported GDP growth of 0.7% over the three months to April.

Brit Brief 12/06/2026 05:35

UK economy shrinks for first time in eight months in April — UK economy contracts for first time since last August

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GDP decline in April

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said gross domestic product (GDP) declined by 0.1% in April in a sharp pull back from growth of 0.3% in March and 0.4% in February.

The decline was driven by a 0.2% fall in services, which was partially offset by a 0.1% rise in construction and 0.4% growth in manufacturing.

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Three-month growth remains positive

In the three months to April, GDP grew by 0.7%, according to the ONS.

Liz McKeown, ONS director of economic statistics said: “The economy grew in the latest three months as a whole, reflecting strong growth in February and March.

“This was despite April showing a small fall.”

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