Retail sales slumped last month, official figures show, as shoppers cut back on spending in supermarkets.

Sales volumes expanded by 0.3pc in September, following a rise of 1pc in August, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

It was the weakest growth since a decline of 0.9pc in June but it was better than a 0.4pc decline expected by economists.

Supermarkets sales volumes fell by 2.4pc during the month, leading to the largest month-on-month fall for food stores this year. 

Retailers blamed poor weather and consumers continuing to cut back on luxury food items, according to the ONS.

It comes as Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to raise taxes as part of a £40bn plan to shore up the public finances.

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