UK growth falters leaving the Chancellor even more exposed

Martin Beck, Chief Economist | Economic Consulting and Analysis

UK GDP slipped 0.1% in September, leaving Q3 growth almost flat. While the near-term outlook has softened, and a December rate cut now looks even more likely, easing inflation, healthier balance sheets and looser monetary policy could support a better 2026. But without a confidence-boosting, pro-growth Budget, the UK risks another year of underperformance.