Inflation hit 18-month high in June as food prices surged for third month in a row

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said Consumer Prices Index inflation rose to 3.6% in June, up from 3.4% in May and the highest since January 2024.

The increase was unexpected, with most economists forecasting inflation to remain unchanged at 3.4%.

The ONS said annual food price inflation hit the highest level since February 2024, while transport costs also pushed up the cost of living.

ONS acting chief economist Richard Heys said: "Inflation ticked up in June driven mainly by motor fuel prices which fell only slightly, compared with a much larger decrease at this time last year.

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"Food price inflation has increased for the third consecutive month to its highest annual rate since February of last year.

"However, it remains well below the peak seen in early 2023."

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said there was "more to do" to help bring inflation down.

She said: "I know working people are still struggling with the cost of living."

"There is more to do and I'm determined we deliver on our Plan for Change to put more money into people's pockets," she added.