Economy bounces back above pre-COVID levels for first time

January 14, 2022

Britain's economy grew stronger than expected in November before the Omicron variant struck, bouncing back for the first time above pre-pandemic levels.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said gross domestic product (GDP) had risen 0.9% during the month, up from a just 0.1% rise in October.

Analysts had predicted a 0.4% rise in November.

It meant the world's fifth-biggest economy was 0.7% bigger than it was in February 2020, the ONS said.

Office for National Statistics chief economist Grant Fitzner said: "The economy grew strongly in the month before Omicron struck, with architects, retailers, couriers and accountants having a bumper month.

"Construction also recovered from several weak months as many raw materials became easier to get hold of.

"This meant that monthly GDP exceeded its pre-pandemic level for the first time in November."

Rate this item
(0 votes)

HOW TO LISTEN

103.5 & 105.3FM

Online

Mobile Apps

Smart Speaker