United Kingdom Economy Shrinks by 0.1 Percent as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Vital Services

The United Kingdom economy contracted by 0.1 percent in April following disruptions and rising energy costs linked to the conflict in the Middle East.Services activity, particularly within the sports and recreation sector, suffered a sharp 9.1 percent decline that overshadowed minor gains in construction and manufacturing.Economists warn that persistent inflationary pressures and a looming energy price cap hike pose significant risks to annual growth projections.