Economy

Economy

• Shoppers defy economic gloom in September

  The amount of retail sales saw a 1.5% rise last month, boosted by DIY and garden items.

• New government Covid scheme to pay up to half of wages

  Chancellor Rishi Sunak increases support for firms and workers as lockdown restrictions spread.

• Brexit: Trade talks continue as negotiators meet in London

  The EU's Michel Barnier has warned "every day counts" ahead of December's deadline to reach a deal.

• Asia suffering 'worst recession in living memory'

  Economic growth for the region has been downgraded - despite China's emerging recovery.

• UK inflation rises after Eat Out to Help Out ends

  The inflation rate increased to 0.5% in September after the discount meals scheme ended, figures show.