UK economy sees surprise growth

Official data from the Office for National Statistics revealed that British GDP expanded by 0.5% in February, a significant jump from the 0.1% growth seen in January.

This momentum occurred just before the conflict in the Middle East triggered a sharp spike in energy costs and disrupted global trade routes.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves noted the positive figures but cautioned that the 'war of choice' in Iran has created a new set of inflationary challenges.

Economists suggest that while the initial growth was strong, the long-term outlook remains clouded by the ongoing energy crisis.