The UK economy expanded more than expected in the second quarter but the overall growth softened as the US frontloading had propelled growth at the start of the year. Gross domestic product expanded 0.3 percent in the second quarter largely driven by growth in the service sector, the Office for National Statistics reported Thursday. Although the rate was stronger than the expected growth of 0.1 percent, it eased markedly from 0.7 percent in the first quarter.
"Some activity was brought forward to February and March ahead of changes to stamp duty in April and announced US tariff changes," the ONS said. Services output rose 0.4 percent from the first quarter and construction climbed 1.2 percent. But production reported a 0.3 percent fall.
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April 24, 2026 15:15 ET Economics news flow was relatively light this week even as the conflict in the Middle East continued, raising concerns for policymakers. In the U.S., spending data, initial jobless claims and pending home sales were the highlights. Business confidence in the biggest euro area economy was in focus in Europe. Inflation data from Japan gained attention in Asia.