UK economy

UK negotiators are working "flat out" to get a trade deal with the US, Chancellor Rachel Reeves says.

The government borrowed more than expected last year, placing more pressure on the public finances ahead of the full impact of US tariffs.

The government gets most of its money from tax but also borrows when it wants to boost spending.

But the IMF also sees UK inflation going up as bills rise, while economies will be hit by Trump tariffs.

Economic uncertainty globally and in the UK means there are conflicting forces at play with prices.

Inflation falls in the year to March as the price of petrol drops.

The rate at which prices are rising remains above the Bank of England's 2% inflation target.

Choice of home loans requiring small deposits of 5% or 10% reaches levels last seen in the 2008 financial crisis.