UK economy far exceeds forecasts to grow 0.5% in boost to Rachel Reeves

February GDP rise bigger than forecast but impact from Donald Trump’s tariff war yet to come

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The UK economy unexpectedly expanded by 0.5% in February, according to official figures, in a boost for Rachel Reeves before an expected downturn triggered by Donald Trump’s tariff war.

Reversing a modest fall in January, the increase in gross domestic product in February could mark the last period of expansion before the threat of a global trade war dampens business investment and consumer spending.

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