Reacting to the latest ONS GDP figures, David Bharier, Head of Research at the BCC, said: 

“The first estimate of GDP for Q1 2023 of 0.1% growth indicates the UK is avoiding a recession and shows the resilience of businesses who are having to weather serious headwinds.

“However, this also means we’re in a period of virtually no growth. The core issues affecting British businesses, such as unprecedented inflation, energy price shocks, and record tightness in the labour market, have not gone away.

“A further rise in the interest rate will also impact firms that have resorted to using finance to manage cash flow.

“The Government must now act fast and set out a plan for economic growth to mitigate the impacts of these shocks. Businesses need to see a reduction in the cost and burden of trading internationally, particularly with the EU, as well as support for those continuing to be hit by record energy costs.”