The modest growth reverses a slight contraction that had been seen the previous month.

The UK's economy returned to growth in May, but the expansion was modest as businesses were affected by the impact of the Iran war. The economy grew by 0.1%, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said, driven by expansion in the UK's service sector, although this was offset by falls in the production and construction sectors. May's growth comes after a slight contraction in April, and analysts said the latest figures suggested the economy had weathered the rise in energy prices caused by the conflict in the Middle East better than expected. However, others noted the UK economy remained "fragile" and incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham faced a challenge to boost growth. Over the three months to May, the ONS said the economy grew by 0.7%, external compared with the previous three-month period. "The economy recorded robust growth in the three months to May, though the pace eased slightly as the latest two months showed a weaker picture," said Liz McKeown, director of economic statistics at the ONS. "Computer programming and advertising led the way, while the often-volatile pharmaceutical industry also performed well," she added. The economy saw a strong start to the year, but growth has faltered in recent months with the conflict in the Middle East having affected some businesses.