Campaigners have stressed that closer alignment with Europe is the "best insurance policy" for the UK economy, after Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her Spring Statement.
Addressing MPs in the House of Commons, Reeves said she had the “right economic plan” for the country.
It came as the budget watchdog reduced its forecast for growth this year to 1.1%, down from the 1.4% it forecast in November, while upgrading its outlook for 2027 and 2028 to 1.6%, up from 1.5%.
Naomi Smith, Chief Executive of Best for Britain, said:
“While it is welcome that the Chancellor has overseen falling inflation and interest rates, the dangerous and unpredictable situation in the Middle East could reverse both.
“The best insurance policy for our economy is closer alignment with our partners in Europe for all industrial and service sectors which will not only help ease the cost of living for UK consumers, but also shield the EU from the worst of Trump induced volatility.”