News
Inflation hike
Inflation is at a five-year high. Under the Retail Prices Index (RPI) — the measure favoured by union negotiators — the annual inflation rate was 3.5% in April against 3.1% the previous month.
Higher air fares over the Easter period and dearer clothing were the main contributors to the increase.
Under Consumer Prices Index Housing (CPIH) — the government’s preferred measure — inflation was up to 2.6% from 2.3% in March.