*Economy grows 0.7% in first quarter* Office for National Statistics data shows that the UK economy experienced growth of 0.7% in the first quarter of the year, surpassing expectations and defying earlier warnings of a downturn. This growth, primarily driven by the services sector, has provided a boost to Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who said: "Up against a backdrop of global uncertainty we are making the right choices now in the national interest." Despite concerns over the impact of US tariffs and rising National Insurance contributions, businesses increased investments to mitigate potential losses. The production sector saw a rise of 1.1%, while international trade contributed positively to GDP growth. However, economists caution that future growth may weaken due to ongoing global uncertainties and tariff implications.