The economy is 9% smaller than it was before the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The ONS said January’s fall was a “notable hit” albeit smaller than some had expected.

Retailers, restaurants and hairdressers were all affected by the latest Covid-19 lockdown.

new data showed the UK economy shrank by 2.9% in January as the third lockdown came into force.

The economy is 9% smaller than it was before the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The ONS said January’s fall was a “notable hit” albeit smaller than some had expected.

Retailers, restaurants and hairdressers were all affected by the latest Covid-19 lockdown.