London: Fans of the beautiful game who filled bars, pubs and restaurants during the FIFA World Cup late last year have helped the United Kingdom stave off a much feared recession.
New figures from the Office of National Statistics show the British economy grew by 0.1 per cent in November, defying economists’ forecast of a contraction of 0.2 per cent.
“The largest contribution to growth came from food and beverage service activities in a month [when] the FIFA World Cup started,” the ONS said.
England fans wait for the start of the World Cup quarterfinal match between England and France at a fan zone in London.Credit:AP
Growth in manufacturing production, led by the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors, fell while construction remained flat.
But when measured in the three months to the end of November, gross domestic product contracted by 0.3 per cent.
Nevertheless, the unexpected reprieve comes against a horror few months in Britain, which has been plagued by strikes that have depressed economic activity.
England fans watch the World Cup 2022 match between England and Senegal at Boxpark Croydon in London. Soccer fans helped the British economy by going out to watch the cup.Credit:AP
Trade envoy to ASEAN Richard Graham said the unexpected November growth made a technical recession, which occurs after two consecutive quarters of negative growth, “a wee bit less likely”.
“The economy is still fragile but positive GDP, higher markets & lower global gas prices all help,” the MP for Gloucester said.
