UK GDP Growth Continues But Relies Heavily on Consumers

Britain’s recovery remained on track in the third quarter but fresh figures revealed growth was heavily reliant on the consumer, leaving the government’s much hoped-for rebalancing of the economy elusive.

The second estimate of GDP between July and September confirmed a slight slowdown in the pace of growth, following a 0.9% increase in the second quarter, in line with expectations.

However, the data from the Office for National Statistics gave a more detailed breakdown of the various elements of the UK economy, and suggested that the government is not succeeding in its aim to rebalance it away from a reliance on the consumer sector and towards more exports, business investment, and industry.

Chris Williamson, chief economist at Markit, said: “Further confirmation of the UK’s recent impressive economic performance was provided by official data showing robust growth in the third quarter. However, the news was marred by a fall in business investment, which adds to signs that companies have become increasingly concerned about the economic outlook. Falling business investment once again leaves the economic upturn in the hands of the consumer.”

 
Industrial production grew by just 0.2%, revised down from an earlier estimate of 0.5% growth. It was dragged down by a fall in output in the mining utilities sectors, while the rise in manufacturing output was confirmed at 0.4%.

Exports fell by 0.4%, while imports increased by 1.4%, worsening Britain’s trade position. The UK’s trade deficit with the rest of the world widened to £11.2bn in the third quarter from £8.9bn in the second.

via The Guardian

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