UK economic growth bounces back as services sector expands

Bank of England more likely to increase interest rates as inflationary pressures rise

The UK economy has bounced back from a soft patch in the opening months of 2018, according to a closely watched survey of the services sector that showed stronger than expected activity last month.

In the latest sign that bad weather held back the economy during the first quarter, the health check by the Chartered Institute for Procurement and Supply and IHS Markit reported the strongest growth in eight months.

Related: UK economy picks up speed as service sector growth hits eight-month high - business live