The influential S&P Global/ CIPS flash UK composite purchasing managers index showed a reading of 47.2 in October, below September’s 49.1.
PA
What’s in store for the next prime minister?
Rishi Sunak or Penny Mordaunt will face an in-tray piled high with problems.
Sunak could be declared next PM within hours after Johnson abandons bid
The former chancellor is the favourite to lead the Tories after ex-PM Boris Johnson dramatically withdrew from the race he never officially entered.
Shares jump in London after Johnson withdraws from leadership race
Both the FTSE 100 and the pound gained on Monday, while the cost of Government borrowing fell.
Snap general election is not in national interest – Scottish Tory MP
Andrew Bowie is backing Rishi Sunak in the leadership contest and said the former Chancellor will bring stability to the country.
Mordaunt in race for support after Johnson’s exit makes Sunak No 10 frontrunner
Rishi Sunak became the firm favourite to be the next PM after Boris Johnson pulled out, but Penny Mordaunt could make the cut.
Tory MPs to make their choice for leader after Johnson withdraws
Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt face off in the race for No 10 after ex-PM said it is ‘not the right time’ for him to stand.
Tory leadership contest: How the week will unfold
Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the powerful 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers, has said the party will have a new leader by Friday.
Who are the contenders for the next leader of the Tory Party?
Former chancellor Rishi Sunak and Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt have emerged as the main contenders.
What next for Boris Johnson, the former PM with aspirations to lead again?
Mr Johnson was forced late on Sunday to admit he could not unite his warring party, seemingly surrendering to Rishi Sunak.