News in Review Wednesday 18th February 2026

This week’s News in Review includes ONS data showing UK GDP 0.1% growth in Q4 2025, the UK leads G7 inflation, more FTB mortgage choice and UK unemployment nears five-year high.

Key takeaways:

  • Latest ONS data shows the UK economy expanded by 0.1% in the three months to December 2025
  • Recent OECD figures reveal the UK recorded the highest yearly inflation rate among the G7 in December 2025
  • Current ONS data confirms UK unemployment rate increased to 5.2% in Q4 2025, nearing highest level in five years