Private sector growth slows in March as manufacturers drag

February’s PMI score broke a six-month losing streak.

The manufacturing sector has struggled so far this month (Lesley Martin/PA) (PA Wire)

The UK’s private sector appeared to grow for a second month running after it broke a half-year losing streak, a closely-watched survey has found.

However, growth slowed considerably in March, pulled down by the manufacturing sector, according to the S&P Global/CIPS flash UK purchasing managers’ index.

The index – which is based on preliminary data before a full report next month – showed a score of 52.2 in March, compared to 53.1 in February.