UK economic growth slows between April and June

An added boost from summer sun and sports fixtures for some businesses helped the UK economy to grow by 0.4% between April and June, according to official data.

But the figure – in line with economists’ expectations – is below the 0.6% expansion recorded in the first three months of this year.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said growth had “remained relatively robust”, with services sector propelling growth in the second quarter while manufacturing also grew.

Computer programming, advertising and the pharmaceutical industry were areas of strength, the ONS said. That was offset by falls in power generation and sewerage.

The ONS said some businesses reported that “good weather and sporting events may have had a positive effect” in June.

The men’s football World Cup, which kicked off mid-June, boosted customers at hospitality venues showing the matches.

June also saw several of summer’s heatwaves.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey MP said: “I know people are worried about the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on their cost of living, which has been too high for too long and it has added pressure on British businesses.”

He said the government’s aim was to make the country “more resilient” and to “drive growth in every postcode”.