Construction rose by 0.3% in the final three months of 2012, despite falling 2.5% in the previous quarter.

The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) show the UK construction sector went against the grain in the final quarter of 2012.

The economy contracted by 0.3% during the last quarter of the year, following a 0.9% growth in the previous three months.

Noble Francis, economics director at the Construction Products Association, said: "The GDP figures released today show that the final quarter of last year was extremely difficult with the construction industry 11% lower than a year ago. Recent figures for new orders, which are a forward looking indicator for the industry, were 7% lower than a year ago and as a consequence the coming year is likely to see further contraction from what is already a very difficult position.

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"We welcome the Deputy Prime Minister’s acknowledgement today for more investment in infrastructure, as this is something the industry has been calling for, for two years. However, he must turn this sentiment into real activity if we are not to experience further decline across the industry and the wider economy for many months to come."

Finance Secretary John Swinney said: "The Scottish Government has long pressed the case for urgent investment in Scotland's infrastructure to provide an immediate boost to a sluggish economy and has acted quickly to allocate any funding made available to shovel ready projects, providing much needed support to our construction sector and the wider economy.

"With the full fiscal and economic powers of independence Scotland could create the best possible environment for economic success."

(IT)