Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles indicates a significant decline in UK retail sales, marking the largest drop in 18 months due to reduced consumer spending on food and household goods [1] - In May, UK retail sales fell by 2.7%, exceeding the forecasted decline of 0.5%, and representing the largest monthly drop since December 2023 [1] - Year-on-year, overall retail sales in May decreased by 1.3%, with food sales down by 5% and household goods sales down by 2.5%, contributing to the overall decline [1] Group 2 - The UK economy shows signs of cooling after a 0.7% growth in the first quarter, as indicated by the sharp decline in retail sales [1] - In May, the UK government borrowed £17.7 billion, surpassing the Office for Budget Responsibility's (OBR) forecast of £17.1 billion, and representing an increase of £0.7 billion compared to the same month last year [1] - Public sector spending in May rose by £6.4 billion year-on-year, which was offset by a £5.7 billion increase in tax revenue, partly due to an £1.8 billion rise in national insurance contributions [1] Group 3 - The first two months of the new fiscal year saw borrowing of £37.7 billion, which is lower than the OBR's prediction of £40.7 billion [2] - The UK Treasury is under pressure to adhere to fiscal rules aimed at balancing day-to-day spending and income by the 2029-30 fiscal year while improving public services and stimulating economic growth [2] - The Chancellor announced an annual increase of £29 billion in funding for the National Health Service (NHS), while other areas of day-to-day spending will face cuts [2]