UK economy unexpectedly grows in final months of 2024

The UK economy unexpectedly grew in the final three months of last year following a boost to the construction and services sectors.

The economy expanded by 0.1% between October and December, according to official figures, despite analysts predicting it would contract.

Growth in the quarter was driven by a range of industries, from pubs and bars to machinery manufacturers, having a strong December.

However, this was offset by weak months in trade for computer programming, publishing and car sales businesses.

The figures showing the economy returning to growth will be welcome news for the government, which has made growth its top priority in its effort to improve living standards.

Liz McKeown, director of economic statistics at the Office for National Statistics, said the economy picked up in December following “several weak months”, which meant overall it grew in the final part of the year.

“In December wholesale, film distribution and pubs and bars all had a strong month, as did manufacturing of machinery and the often-erratic pharmaceutical industry,” she said.