UK economy shrinks after facing decline in car production as Brexit looms

Britain's economy contracted sharply in April after the biggest decline in car production since records began, as manufacturers were unable to reverse closures planned to coincide with Britain's expected departure from the EU.

Early in 2019, many motor manufacturers had announced temporary shutdowns in April at their British plants, anticipating trade disruption around the time Britain was due to leave the European Union on March 29.

In the event, Prime Minister Theresa May delayed departure with just days to go. She subsequently set a new date of Oct. 31 but that was too late for businesses to change their plans.

Britain's economy overall