Official data released on Friday revealed a significant decline in the UK’s economic growth in the third quarter of the year.

According to the Office for National Statistics, the country’s economic growth from July to September was a mere 0.1%. This figure is notably less than the 0.5% growth seen in the previous quarter, and also falls short of the market’s expected 0.2%.

The agency reported a contraction in output in September, a trend that could lead to criticism of the new Labour government. Critics may argue that the government’s initial weeks in power have had a negative impact on the economy.

The Labour Party, which assumed power in July after a 14-year hiatus, has pledged to prioritize economic growth over the next five years.

Since the global financial crisis of 2008-9, the UK’s economy has struggled to match its performance in previous years. This is a key point of interest for potential investors and those keeping an eye on the country’s economic landscape.