15 Jan 2026
The UK economy grew by 0.3% in November after car production rebounded and the services sector got a boost, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
An increase in industrial output fuelled growth, helped by the return to production at Jaguar Land Rover's facilities following a cyber-attack at the carmaker.
Manufacturing output increased in November, rising by 2.1%, thanks to a big 25.5% increase in the output of motor vehicles as JLR production bounced back.
The Autumn Budget on 26 November was also drove an increase in services from activities such as accounting and tax consultancy.
The GDP data was better than expected and showed firms were less worried about the Autumn Budget than predicted, according to Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).
Morrison continued: 'The reality of the Chancellor's statement, when it came, was no significant new taxes for firms, but a lack of game changing measures to properly kickstart the economy. Firms are telling us they're still cautious about investing and recruiting, meaning growth will stay limited for the foreseeable.
'Businesses are ambitious to drive forward better growth, but they need help. 2026 must be a year of delivery on growth, with government and business working in partnership. That means action from policymakers on igniting investment, powering productivity and transforming trade.'