UK GDP grew by a less than expected 0.8% in May

GDP was up for the fourth month running

The UK’s recovery from the pandemic slowed in May, with the economy expanding by a slower-than-expected 0.8%.

GDP was up for the fourth month running as pubs and restaurants were able to reopen indoors. But it grew much weaker than the 1.5% expected, leaving the economy 3.1% below its pre-pandemic levels. The figure for May from the Office for National Statistics was lower than April's 2.0% growth when restrictions eased for non-essential retailers, hairdressers and pubs and restaurants that could serve customers outside. GDP falls 2.6% in November as UK nears double-dip recession In May, hospitality firms were allowed to resume indoor service. The service sector grew by 0.9%, including a ...