What's happened
The UK economy grew by 0.6% in Q2 2024, continuing its recovery from a recession at the end of 2023. Growth was driven by the services sector, particularly IT and legal services, despite a flat performance in June. The new Labour government aims for sustained growth amid challenges ahead.
What's behind the headline?
Economic Growth Overview
- The UK economy expanded by 0.6% between April and June 2024, following a 0.7% increase in the previous quarter.
- Growth was primarily driven by the services sector, particularly in IT, legal services, and scientific research.
Challenges Ahead
- Despite positive growth, June saw no economic expansion, indicating potential weaknesses in consumer spending.
- High inflation and interest rates remain concerns, with the Bank of England expected to adjust rates in response to economic conditions.
Government Response
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the need for sustained growth to improve public finances and living standards.
- The Labour government faces a significant challenge in maintaining momentum while addressing a projected fiscal deficit.
What the papers say
According to the BBC, the UK's economy grew by 0.6% in Q2 2024, marking a recovery from last year's recession. Liz McKeown from the Office for National Statistics noted that growth was led by the services sector, particularly in IT and legal services. However, The Guardian cautioned that growth in June was flat, suggesting consumer fatigue and potential challenges ahead. The Independent highlighted that while the UK has recorded the fastest growth in the G7, sustaining this momentum will be difficult, with experts warning of a slowdown in the latter half of the year. The New York Times pointed out that the positive growth figures might provide some relief to the new Labour government, which is under pressure to deliver on economic promises.
How we got here
The UK economy fell into a shallow recession in late 2023, prompting concerns about its recovery. Recent data indicates a rebound, with GDP growth of 0.7% in Q1 2024 followed by 0.6% in Q2, suggesting a positive shift in economic conditions.
Go deeper
- What sectors are driving the UK's economic growth?
- How is the government planning to sustain this growth?
- What challenges does the UK economy face moving forward?
Common question
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What Contributed to the UK's 0.6% Economic Growth in Q2 2024?
The UK economy has shown signs of recovery with a reported 0.6% growth in the second quarter of 2024. This growth, however, comes with its own set of challenges and questions about sustainability. What factors drove this growth, and what does it mean for the future of the UK economy? Below, we explore key questions surrounding this economic development.
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What are the latest news stories making headlines today?
Stay updated with the most significant news stories that are shaping today's world. From sports and politics to economic developments and legal battles, these stories not only inform but also connect to broader trends affecting our lives. Here are some key stories to watch and what they mean for the future.
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What is Driving the UK's Economic Growth in 2024?
The UK economy has shown signs of recovery with a growth of 0.6% in the second quarter of 2024. This growth raises questions about the sectors contributing to this rebound, the implications of stagnant growth in June, and what the future holds for the economy. Here, we explore these critical aspects to provide clarity on the current economic landscape.
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How are IT and legal services driving the UK's economic recovery?
The UK's economy has shown signs of recovery, growing by 0.6% in Q2 2024, largely thanks to the services sector, particularly IT and legal services. This growth raises questions about the specific contributions of these sectors and the challenges they face moving forward. Below, we explore key questions surrounding the impact of IT and legal services on the UK economy.
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What are the concerns over the sustainability of the UK's economic growth?
The UK economy has shown signs of recovery with a 0.6% growth in Q2 2024, but questions linger about the sustainability of this growth. With June reporting no growth, many are concerned about the underlying economic momentum. This page explores the key issues surrounding the UK's economic landscape and what it means for the future.
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What Key Economic Indicators Should We Monitor in the UK?
Understanding the key economic indicators is crucial for grasping the current state of the UK economy. With recent growth figures and ongoing challenges, many are left wondering what these indicators mean for the future. Here, we explore the most important metrics to watch, their implications for public policy, and what they reveal about consumer confidence and economic predictions.
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How does the UK's economic growth compare to other countries?
The UK economy has shown signs of recovery with a growth of 0.6% in Q2 2024, but how does this performance stack up against global economic trends? Understanding the comparative landscape can shed light on the UK's position and future prospects. Below are some common questions that arise when considering the UK's economic growth in a global context.
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What are the predictions for the future of the UK economy?
As the UK economy shows signs of recovery with a 0.6% growth in Q2 2024, many are left wondering what the future holds. With political changes and economic challenges ahead, understanding expert predictions can help individuals and businesses prepare for potential shifts in the economic landscape.
More on these topics
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.
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The Office for National Statistics is the executive office of the UK Statistics Authority, a non-ministerial department which reports directly to the UK Parliament.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Rachel Jane Reeves is a British Labour Party politician serving as Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office since 2020. She has been the Member of Parliament for Leeds West since 2010.
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The Bank of England is the central bank of the United Kingdom and the model on which most modern central banks have been based.