Services Sector Takes the Biggest Hit
- UK GDP falls by 0.5% in July due to poor weather and industrial strikes
- Services sector output down by 0.5%, largest contributor to monthly GDP fall
- Human health and social work activities sub-sector fell by 2.1%
- Production output down 0.7% and construction output down 0.5%
- Overall economy grew 0.2% over three months to July compared to April 2023
- Encouraging investment crucial for growth, says CBI
- Permanent full expensing regime could boost GDP by 2% by 2030/31
The UK economy contracted by 0.5% in July due to poor weather conditions and industrial strikes, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The services sector output fell by 0.5%, with human health and social work activities sub-sector experiencing a decline of 2.1%. Production output dropped by 0.7%, while construction output decreased by 0.5%. Despite this, the economy grew by 0.2% between April 2023 and July when considering a three-month period. The CBI suggests that encouraging investment is vital for growth and proposes a permanent full expensing regime to boost GDP.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the UK’s economic performance in July 2023, citing data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and including quotes from experts to provide context and analysis. It does not include irrelevant or sensational details, nor does it present personal opinions as facts. However, it could be improved by providing more information on the specific industrial strikes mentioned.
Noise Level: 4
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the UK’s economic performance in July and discusses various factors that contributed to the decline, such as poor weather, industrial strikes, and specific sectors’ performances. It also mentions potential solutions for boosting growth through investment. However, it could benefit from more in-depth analysis of long-term trends or consequences of decisions on those who bear the risks.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: UK economy, services, production, construction sectors, retail trade, manufacturing, healthcare and education industries
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the UK’s economic performance in July, with a decline in GDP due to poor weather and industrial strikes. It mentions the impact on various industries such as healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing, which can affect financial markets and company performances.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the text.
