AGP Executive Report
Last update: 34 minutes agoEconomic Growth: UK GDP rose 0.1% in August, below July’s 0.4% but ahead of forecasts for contraction. Manufacturing and energy drove growth, while services stalled and construction shrank. Hiring Pressures: Just 15% of businesses say they are hiring confidently, down from 24% last year, as firms cite labour costs and employment regulation as threats to investment and jobs. Business Costs: Retailers are urging ministers not to raise business rates, while business leaders call for a lasting fix to the system. Trade and Industry: France has dropped its opposition to including the UK in the EU’s proposed “Made in Europe” rules for cars, provided Britain aligns with the bloc’s trade measures, including tariffs on Chinese EVs. Investment: The British Business Bank is committing £180m across AI and deep-tech funds, backing growth in emerging UK industries.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.