Fears over recession

Fears are growing that the UK economy is heading back into recession because of tougher coronavirus restrictions.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) declined by 2.6% month-onmonth in November.

Aftersixmonthsofgrowth, GDP at the end of the month was 8.5% below its pre-pandemic peak and is expected to fall further. Analysts had predicted a 4.6% decline for November, and economists warning of a recession if restrictions remain in place in the first three months of 2021.