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ONS revises UK second-quarter 2026 growth up to 0.5%

The ONS raised its estimate of UK GDP growth for April–June 2026 from 0.4% to 0.5%, helped by services, while lowering 2025 growth to 1.2%. Economists expect a weaker second half.

2 outlets · 1L · 1C · 0R First reported Account updated
Image: Daily Mirror
Image: Evening Standard

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The story, neutrally told

The Office for National Statistics said UK GDP grew 0.5% between April and June 2026, revised up from an earlier estimate of 0.4%. This followed growth of 0.6% in the first quarter, and the ONS put second-quarter services growth at an upwardly revised 0.6%. Both outlets say hot weather and the start of the World Cup boosted June trade, offsetting the effects of the Iran war.

Growth for 2025 was revised down from 1.3% to 1.2%. Chancellor John Healey welcomed the revision, saying the UK had the fastest G7 growth so far this year, but called the position fragile. The Mirror presents the figures as a boost for Healey ahead of next month's Budget.

Economists expect a tougher end to 2026 because of higher energy and fuel prices; WPI Strategy's Martin Beck said a 1.2% full-year outcome would mean virtually no expansion in the second half. The Evening Standard adds that consumer spending growth stayed at 0.3%, business investment was revised up to 1.8%, and the household saving ratio rose from 8.6% to 8.8%.

Every sentence links to the reporting it rests on.

Left1 outlet

Framing
Political angle: the data is a boost for the Chancellor before the Budget, tempered by warnings of pain ahead for households.
Emphasis
Budget timing, economists' warnings of dark clouds, rate rises and tax rises, and the Institute of Directors survey.
Leaves out or plays down
Does not quote Healey's own reaction or give the consumer spending, investment and saving figures.
Charged language
“menacing dark clouds”
For example
“a welcome confirmation for Chancellor John Healey as he prepares for next month’s Budget” — Daily Mirror
“There are plenty of menacing dark clouds hinting at more pain for household budgets” — Daily Mirror

Centre1 outlet

Framing
Economic data report led by the ONS revision and services strength, with the Chancellor's reaction included.
Emphasis
Healey's statement, household finance figures, saving ratio and the Cornwall Insight warning of a 16% rise in energy bills.
Leaves out or plays down
Does not mention the Budget-related political stakes as directly or the Institute of Directors survey.
For example
“From the cost of living to cost of business, the lasting answer is stronger growth.” — Evening Standard
“could soar by 16% in January” — Evening Standard

Right0 outlets

No right outlet in our sources has covered this story yet.