Retail sales see biggest rise since 2021
Warmer weather lifts clothing and DIY demand.
Tax receipts reach record £857 billion
Stamp duty and income tax drive sharp increases.
HICBC penalties down from £7m to 23K since 2018
Just 45 penalties issued in 2024/25.
Economy faces slow growth and global trade risks
Services stay strong as other sectors struggle.
Business groups raise concerns over new employment bill
UK’s biggest organisations warn of hiring risks.
Government intervenes to save British Steel
Emergency legislation rushed through to maintain UK steel production.
UK hiring slows as rising costs weigh on employers
ONS data signals cautious outlook for UK workforce.
Business confidence hits two-year low
Tax hikes and trade fears drive down outlook.
Job vacancies fall as hiring demand slows
Higher costs may hold back wages.
Government steps in to save British Steel
Emergency law passed to avoid furnace shutdown.
UK economy grew 0.5% in February
Surprise boost, but uncertainty lies ahead.
Bank of England expected to cut rates in May
Trump’s tariffs raise global recession fears.