UK economy suffers worst-ever slump during coronavirus lockdown
The UK economy suffered its worst-ever collapse during April as the coronavirus lockdown wiped out a fifth of GDP.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP plunged 20.4% during the month – a time when all non-essential retailers were forced to close.
The slump is the worst ever recorded by the ONS, meaning it was more severe than any declines after the 2008 financial crash.
Non-essential retailers will be allowed to reopen their doors from Monday as the government seeks to get the economy moving in the right direction.
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