5 important things happening in the UK today

Here are 5 important things happening in the UK today, 14 August 2025.

UK economy posts surprise 0.4% growth in June: The UK economy grew at a faster rate than expected in the second quarter, official figures show, despite pressure on households and businesses from tax increases and Donald Trump’s global trade war. Figures from the Office for National Statistics showed growth in gross domestic product (GDP) slowed to 0.3% in the three months to the end of June, down from a rate of 0.7% in the first quarter. [Guardian]

Claire’s falls into administration: Fashion accessories chain Claire’s has collapsed into administration in the UK and Ireland, putting 2,150 jobs at risk. The company has 278 shops in the UK and 28 in Ireland, but has been struggling with falling sales and fierce competition. Claire’s said all outlets will continue trading while it considers “the best possible path forward”. [BBC]

Cost of first reservoir in 30 years trebles to up to £7.5 billion: Troubled Thames Water is to warn that the cost of a new reservoir in Oxfordshire has rocketed to as much as £7.5 billion, more than three times the previous estimate. In an announcement expected as soon as Thursday, Thames will blame soaring construction costs at the site near Abingdon for busting the £2.2 billion budget. So far, only preliminary engineering works have been undertaken. [Telegraph]

Rayner demands the right for staff to stop work in a heatwave: Angela Rayner was one of the five cabinet ministers to support the introduction of mandatory maximum working temperatures. The deputy prime minister told the previous government to roll out “urgent guidance” on safe working temperatures during the heatwave in 2022. Employers would be required by law to control temperatures at work by providing extra breaks, ability to work flexible hours or to finish early if temperatures were exceeded. [Times]