The UK's goods trade deficit widened in December to an 11-month high of £7.3bn, according to figures released by the Office for National Statistics.

The deficit rose from November's figure of £6.8bn as imports from outside the EU rose by 7.6%. Analysts said the pound's weakness had not boosted exports as much as had been hoped.

"These figures show a further welcome increase in exports. However, imports have risen more strongly, the trade deficit has widened, and it is clear that the much-needed rebalancing of the economy towards export-led growth is not progressing quickly enough," said David Kern, chief economist at the British Chambers of Commerce.

"To strengthen Britain's international trading position, the government should back our exporters more forcefully - as many of our competitors are doing - and adopt measures aimed at ensuring that adequate trade finance is available."