U.K. Economy Will Struggle Even as Confidence Gains

Britain’s economy will struggle to gather momentum until the second half of the year even as business sentiment and hiring intentions improve, according to a survey by BDO LLP.

A confidence index rose to 92.2 in March from 90.6 in February and a hiring gauge increased to 96 from 95, the accountancy firm said in a report in London today. Still, its output index, at 93, remains below the 95 level that points to positive growth one quarter ahead. BDO said “robust business conditions will remain elusive.”