UK economy unexpectedly grows in August despite fall in consumer spending

The UK economy grew unexpectedly in August, despite a fall in consumer spending, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics.

Gross domestic product (GDP) rose by 0.1% last month, compared with 0.4% growth in July.

Economists had predicted a slowdown in growth due to the fall in consumer spending.

The surprise growth is a boost for Chancellor John Healey ahead of his first budget later this month.