Overview
- The Office for National Statistics, which released the data Thursday, said GDP rose 0.6% in the first quarter and 0.3% in March.
- Growth was led by services, with the ONS highlighting wholesale, computer programming and advertising as standout areas.
- Earlier readings were updated, with January revised to 0.0%, February to 0.4%, and fourth‑quarter 2025 to 0.2%, clarifying the run‑up to March.
- The ONS and private‑sector analysts flagged front‑loading and stockpiling in March, suggesting some activity was brought forward ahead of expected shortages and price rises.
- Economists say the Iran war and UK political uncertainty could lift energy costs, push up inflation and slow Q2–Q3 growth, with 10‑year gilt yields topping 5% this week.