Chamber welcomes UK economy's return to growth
The UK economy expanded by 0.2 per cent in August, a development welcomed by business leaders in Greater Birmingham ahead of the upcoming autumn budget.
The figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) comes after a stagnant growth in June and July.
Services output grew 0.1 per cent in August, manufacturing was up 0.5 per cent and construction expanded 0.4 per cent, the ONS said.
Emily Stubbs (pictured), head of policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: "Although widely anticipated, the Government will be pleased to see the economy return to growth in August as it gears up for the Autumn Budget.
"With activity picking up across all sectors, the Chancellor will be hoping that this will translate into higher levels of consumer spending and ultimately drive business confidence- especially as the narrative driven by the Treasury points to a bleak fiscal picture in the short term.
"Early analysis from our latest Quarterly Business Report reveals the challenges that exporters continue to face locally and this is mirrored in the national data as the trade deficit widened over the previous three months as geopolitical tension continues to impact day to day activity.
"Clearly the Chancellor will need to use next month's Statement to effectively spell out to businesses on how she intends to reduce cost pressures, unlock investment and turn the dial on devolution in order to power regional economic growth."
