UK economy grows more than expected

The UK’s economy grew by more than expected in the first three months of the year, according to the latest official figures.

The economy expanded by 0.7% in the January-to-March period, which was stronger than the 0.6% that analysts had forecast.

The Office for National Statistics said growth was largely driven by the UK services sector, although production also “grew significantly”.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the latest figures showed “the strength and potential of the UK economy”.

“In the first three months of the year, the UK economy has grown faster than the US, Canada, France, Italy and Germany,” she added.