UK economy grew 0.1% in August despite spending fall

Summary

The UK economy grew 0.1% in August, according to the Office for National Statistics, despite falling consumer spending, The Guardian reports. Growth beat economists’ forecast of a 0.1% contraction and was slower than July’s 0.4% rise, The Guardian says. The BBC reports that John Healey called the surprise growth a 'sign of resilience' ahead of the Budget.

Timeline

1. The Guardian

   15 Oct 2026, 06:05 UTCSource ↗

   The Guardian reports that the UK economy unexpectedly grew 0.1% in August despite falling consumer spending, against a forecast contraction of 0.1%.

2. CNBC

   15 Oct 2026, 06:37 UTCSource ↗

   CNBC reports that the UK economy grew 0.1% in August, beating expectations.

3. Euronews

   15 Oct 2026, 07:46 UTCSource ↗

   Euronews reports that the UK economy unexpectedly grew despite falling consumer spending.

4. Financial Times

   15 Oct 2026, 08:34 UTCSource ↗

   The Financial Times reports that the UK economy grew 0.1% in August, defying fears of a contraction.

5. BBC

   15 Oct 2026, 09:29 UTCSource ↗

   The BBC reports that Healey called the surprise 0.1% growth a 'sign of resilience' ahead of the Budget.