Expect three years of weak economic growth, warns EY Item Club

Downgraded forecasts

Laura Dew
clock • 1 min read

UK growth will remain weak for at least three years, according to the EY Item Club, with the prospect worsening if Britain is left with a no-deal Brexit.

The organisation has downgraded its forecast for growth in 2018 from 1.4% three months ago to 1.3% while the growth forecast for 2019 has been lowered to 1.5% from 1.6% in the summer. If correct, the 2018 figures would be the worst year of UK economic growth since the financial crisis.  Furthermore, these are based on the assumption the UK could achieve transition terms, but the figures would be "significantly weaker" if this did not occur.  Howard Archer, chief economic adviser to the EY Item Club, said: "Heightened uncertainties in the run-up and the aftermath of the UK's exit co...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

UK inflation falls to 3% to give BoE 'green light' for rate cut

UK inflation falls to 3% to give BoE 'green light' for rate cut

In line with expectations

Michael Nelson
clock 18 February 2026 • 2 min read
Interest rate cuts expected after UK GDP edges up 0.1%

Interest rate cuts expected after UK GDP edges up 0.1%

Construction output lowest since 2021

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 12 February 2026 • 2 min read
Leaked Budget document viewed almost 25,000 times ahead of speech

Leaked Budget document viewed almost 25,000 times ahead of speech

Office for Budget Responsibility chair Richard Hughes quit as a result

Jenna Brown
clock 11 February 2026 • 2 min read