The trajectory of the United Kingdom’s economy is becoming increasingly uncertain as the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) delivers a sobering forecast, indicating that the Bank of England (BoE) might not manage to rein in inflation to its coveted 2% target until at least 2028. This bleak outlook is accompanied by warnings of potential economic stagnation that could pose significant challenges for the nation.
NIESR’s projections suggest that while the current inflation rate stands at 7.9%, it is expected to recede to 5.2% by the conclusion of 2023. However, a deceleration in the inflationary trend is predicted beyond this point. Alarmingly, the projected average remains notably higher than the BoE’s 2% target for the upcoming years of 2025, 2026, and 2027.On the economic growth front, NIESR envisions a modest expansion of the UK economy, with growth anticipated at a mere 0.4% in the current year and a slightly lower 0.3% in 2024. This forecast is in line with NIESR’s previous projections from three months ago, which had estimated growth rates of 0.3% for both 2023 and 2024. These figures underscore the formidable challenges the UK economy is grappling with, indicating a struggle to gain substantial traction in the short term.
Chakjik Chada, the Director of NIESR, has sounded the alarm, drawing parallels to the tumultuous 1970s. He pointed out the convergence of factors such as inflationary pressures, political uncertainties, a global economic slowdown, and surging oil prices, evoking memories of a bygone era marked by economic turbulence.
Looking beyond the immediate future, NIESR projects that the UK’s economic output might not manage to recover to pre-COVID-19 levels until the culmination of 2024. This projection signals a prolonged period of subdued growth, with the economy expected to remain nearly stagnant over a five-year period.
One of the most concerning aspects of NIESR’s outlook is the risk of recession looming over the horizon. By the close of 2024, there is a substantial 60% probability that the UK economy could slip back into recession. A multitude of challenges contribute to this vulnerability, including a scarcity of skilled labor, lagging productivity, inadequate government investment, and a sluggish regional economic landscape.
As the UK navigates these uncertain waters, the onus falls on policymakers, economists, and stakeholders to devise effective strategies that can counter the multifaceted challenges and steer the nation’s economy towards a more stable and prosperous future.