According to figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the UK economy expanded 0.4% and the service sector continued to grow despite the foot-and-mouth crisis.
The performance of the service sector was stronger than estimated and accounted for two thirds of economic activity in the UK. It expanded 0.8% on the quarter and stands 3.7% higher than a year earlier.
“The figures show a strong increase in services output,” said Trevor Williams of Lloyds TSB.
—Jessica Jarlvi
Reprinted with permission; copyright 2001 i-FM
