CBI responds to latest GDP figures (three months to April 2026)

“GDP growth of 0.7% in the three months to April confirms a strong start to the year, but today’s figures continue to reflect the unusually robust performance seen in preceding months. With the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict now feeding through to the economy, this pace of growth is unlikely to be sustained.

“Our business surveys report that underlying momentum remains subdued across much of the private sector as global shocks compound domestic headwinds, with businesses facing growing pressure from elevated costs and uncertainty.

“In a world of elevated uncertainty, the UK’s growth prospects will depend increasingly on the strength of its domestic fundamentals. Businesses have shown resilience through recent economic shocks, but many are now facing costs that are becoming increasingly difficult to absorb. That makes it all the more important for government to deliver a business-led growth agenda by cutting energy costs, unlocking infrastructure delivery through robust private sector partnerships, and finding workable landing zones on employment rights reform that support hiring and job creation.”