Overview

• UK GDP remained flat in April due to unusually heavy rainfall affecting retail and construction sectors.
• Economists argue the flat growth is a temporary setback and expect recovery in the coming months.
• The stagnation poses a challenge to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's election campaign focused on economic recovery.
• Labour Party criticizes the Conservative government's handling of the economy, citing the latest figures.
• The Bank of England's decision on interest rates is complicated by the recent economic data and upcoming election.