Economy
UK economy contracts again in May
Despite government growth push, the UK economy contracted by 0.1% in May, following a drop of 0.3% in April.
Economy
New UK Trade Strategy to boost exports
The Government has launched its new trade strategy which aims to boost UK services exports and strengthen anti-dumping defences to protect the country from the global tariff wars.
Economy
Budget blamed for labour market decline
HMRC figures show that the higher employer national insurance costs caused the loss of more than 250,000 jobs since the Autumn budget.
Economy
Consumers reduce non-essential spending
Data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) indicates that whilst food spending remains solid, non-food sales decreased in May due to lower consumer confidence.
Regulation
Inheritance Tax reforms a ‘lose-lose’, says HTA
The Horticultural Trades Association warns that proposed reforms to inheritance tax will cost 1,300 sector jobs, slash investment and drain treasury tax revenues.
Economy
Inflation risen to highest rate in more than a year
A rise in the cost of household bills and higher business costs has pushed UK inflation from 2.6% in March to 3.5% in April, according to official data.
Regulation
HTA calls for UK-EU leaders to negotiate an SPS agreement ahead of key summit
Timed ahead of the London Summit and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the HTA highlights the crucial opportunity to ease trade burdens.
Business
Businesses struggling to keep head above water, says S&P
S&P Global Market Intelligence suggests private sector confidence collapse and significant output decline in April, with firms reporting “more of a struggle” to survive after Chancellor’s tax rises kicked in
Regulation
Trade bodies call for urgent action to safeguard horticulture and fresh produce industry
The Horticultural Trades Association, the Fresh Produce Consortium, and British Potato Trade Association urgently call on the Cabinet Office, Treasury and Defra to secure UK’s horticulture and fresh produce industries.
Regulation
Spring Statement 2025: Key points
During her Spring Statement, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves set out the plans for the UK economy in the House of Commons.
Economy
OECD cuts growth forecasts
Ahead of the Chancellor’s Spring Statement next week, the OECD has downgraded the UK’s growth prospects.
