But the recovery slowed sharply even before this month’s second English shutdown was ordered, as local restrictions were imposed around the country. The economy bounced back from the 19.8 per cent contraction during April, May and June. Mr Sunak added: “The steps we’ve had to take since to halt the spread of the virus mean growth has likely slowed further since then. James Smith, research director at the Resolution Foundation think tank, said: “The UK’s record quarterly economic growth in the third quarter reflects a rapid bounce back as Britain emerged from lockdown. “There seems little doubt that a renewed national lockdown will cause the economy to contract again in the fourth quarter – very possibly, by an appreciable amount,” he said.

Source: Daily Mirror November 12, 2020 22:18 UTC