LONDON: UK manufacturing expanded at its fastest pace in four years in May as businesses accelerated purchases to get ahead of rising costs and supply disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, a closely watched survey showed.S&P Global's manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) edged up to 53.9 in May from 53.7 in April. A reading above 50 indicates expansion. The increase was driven largely by companies bringing forward orders to avoid expected price increases and delivery delays, suggesting the improvement may prove temporary.Even so, the manufacturing sector has shown resilience at a time when broader economic prospects have been clouded by geopolitical tensions and domestic political uncertainty. Prime Minister Keir Starmer also continues to face pressure from within his party, adding to concerns over business and consumer confidence.The strength in manufacturing could help offset an anticipated slowdown in the wider economy after Britain recorded 0.6% growth in the first quarter. Economists expect growth to moderate in the coming months as households contend with higher living costs linked to rising energy and commodity prices. The survey also pointed to mounting inflationary pressures. Average selling prices increased at the fastest pace since July 2022.