Consumer shopping, hospitality, boost UK economy

The UK economy bounced back in April after it was boosted by stronger consumer spending in shopping and hospitality.

UK gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.2 percent for the month after a 0.3 percent fall in March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed.

The latest figure was in line with forecasts for the month from economists.

ONS director of economic statistics Darren Morgan said: “GDP bounced back after a weak March.

“Bars and pubs had a comparatively strong April, while car sales rebounded and education partially recovered from the effect of the previous month’s strikes.

“These were partially offset by falls in health, which was affected by the junior doctors’ strikes, along with falls in computer manufacturing and the often-erratic pharmaceuticals industry.

“House-builders and estate agents also had a poor month.”