This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-57438437

The article has changed 6 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 0 Version 1
UK economy grew 2.3% in April UK economy gets boost in April as shops reopen
(32 minutes later)
The UK economy grew 2.3% in April, its highest monthly rate since July last year. The UK economy grew 2.3% in April, its fastest monthly growth since July last year.
Shoppers spent more on the High Street, more cars were bought, and there was more spending in pubs, cafes and restaurants, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. Shoppers spent more on the High Street as non-essential shops reopened, and people bought more cars and caravans.
There was also more spending in pubs, cafes and restaurants as restrictions eased the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.
Despite the surge in activity, the UK economy is still 3.7% below its pre-pandemic peak.Despite the surge in activity, the UK economy is still 3.7% below its pre-pandemic peak.
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak said that the figures were "a promising sign that our economy is beginning to recover".
Mr Sunak said more than one million people had come off the government's furlough scheme in March and April as businesses reopened.
Jonathan Athow, ONS deputy national statistician for economic statistics said: "Strong growth in retail spending, increased car and caravan purchases, schools being open for the full month, and the beginning of the reopening of hospitality all boosted the economy in April."