The rate of inflation eased back by more than expected in February, according to official figures released ahead of a predicted leap in the pace of price growth.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the rolling annual rate for the consumer price index measure stood at 2.8%, slowing from 3% the previous month.
ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner said of the shift: “Clothing prices, particularly for women’s clothing, was the biggest driver of this month’s fall.
“This was only partially offset by small increases, for example, from alcoholic drinks.”
Money latest: Why the inflation data matters to you
Economists had expected a largely flat picture for the overall pace of price growth last month, but warned that it is expected to leap markedly in April when households face inflation-busting increases to many bills.
They include those for energy, unless you are on a fixed rate tariff, water, and council tax.
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.
Please refresh the page for the fullest version.
You can receive Breaking News alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News App. You can also follow @SkyNews on X or subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.
