ONS News & Analysis
8 articles
Market Mood
UK Exports to U.S. Drop 25% After Tariff Changes by Trump
UK goods exports to the U.S. decreased by approximately 25% following the implementation of tariff changes by President Donald Trump, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This decline amounts to a fall of £1.5 billion or 24.7%. Despite a trade deal last year, imports from the U.S. increased, resulting in a trade deficit for the UK. The Scotch whisky sector, which is significant for Scotland’s economy, employs around 40,000 people but is insufficient to offset the overall UK trade deficit caused by the tariffs.
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UK Government Borrowing Falls by £19.8bn to £132bn in 2023
UK government borrowing decreased by £19.8bn to £132bn for the year ending in March, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This figure is below the forecasted £132.7bn by the Office for Budget Responsibility. In March alone, borrowing was £12.6bn, exceeding analyst expectations but lower than the prior year. Analysts predict deterioration in finances due to potential inflation and increased energy support, estimating a rise to approximately £145bn in borrowing by 2025/26, coupled with an estimated £12bn increase in interest payments this year.
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UK Inflation Rises to 3.3% After Iran War Impacts Fuel Prices
The UK inflation rate reached 3.3% in March, increasing from 3% in February, primarily due to a spike in fuel prices, which saw a month-on-month rise of 8.7%. The rise aligns with economist expectations and marks the largest increase in petrol and diesel costs in over three years. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) noted that air fares and food prices also contributed to inflation, which is projected to peak between 3.5% and 4% this year. Economic implications suggest higher energy costs may reduce consumer spending.
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UK Inflation Rises to 3.3% in March Amid Fuel Price Surge
UK inflation increased to 3.3% in March 2026, up from 3% in February, according to preliminary data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This rise is attributed to soaring fuel prices, particularly diesel, which neared £2.00 per litre. Economists had anticipated the increase, indicating that the Iran war has significantly impacted consumer prices. The Bank of England is facing a decision on interest rates, with a majority of economists expecting rates to remain unchanged for the year despite concerns over rising inflation and potential stagflation.
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UK Monthly Private Rents Rose 3.5% to £1,367 in September 2025
Average UK monthly private rents increased by 3.5% to £1,367 in the year leading to September 2025, according to provisional estimates by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Only five London postcodes currently have average room rents below £800, down from 81 in 2020. A survey conducted by Spareroom revealed that 30% of tenants in England faced rent increases since the Renters' Rights Act was enacted. With legislative changes coming into effect on May 1, the government will attempt to regulate rent increases, requiring two months' notice and limiting hikes to once a year.
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UK Young Men Living with Parents Hits 35% in 2025, ONS Reports
According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 35% of young men aged 20-35 in the UK were living with their parents in 2025, up from 26% in 2000. This trend is attributed to high rental costs and rising house prices. In contrast, the percentage of young women in the same living situation is 22%. Additionally, almost 30% of households in the UK were comprised of single individuals in 2025, with nearly half aged 65 and over, reflecting broader changes in family structures.
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UK Economy Grows 0.5% in February, Revised January Growth to 0.1%
The UK economy grew by 0.5% in February, the largest monthly increase in over two years, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This figure was higher than the expected 0.1% growth, following a revision of January's estimate from no growth to 0.1%. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its growth prediction for the UK in 2023 down to 0.8% from 1.3%, citing the ongoing US-Israeli war with Iran and its impact on energy prices. The services sector, accounting for over 75% of the economy, also grew by 0.5%, marking the fourth consecutive monthly rise.
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UK Government Borrowing Exceeds Expectations Amid Rising Public Spending
In February, UK government borrowing surpassed forecasts as an increase in tax receipts was overshadowed by higher public spending, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This trend signals potential challenges for fiscal policy, impacting market confidence and interest rates. Key figures revealed that despite tax revenue growth, unsustainable spending levels are raising concerns among investors about the government's financial stability. Analysts suggest this may influence bond yields and the future trajectory of monetary policy.
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