The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has announced that the UK inflation rate has risen to its highest level in over nine years. The consumer price index (CPI), which measures the average change in prices of goods and services, increased by 2.1% in the year to April.
This marks a significant jump from the 1.8% seen in March and surpasses the Bank of England's target rate of 2%. The central bank has maintained its key interest rate at 0.75% since November 2017, but may be forced to reconsider this stance given the current inflationary pressures.
The main drivers of this increase are energy costs, which have risen by 12.9% in the past 12 months, and food prices, which have increased by 3.5%. The average household is expected to feel the pinch as a result of these rising costs.
In terms of specific numbers, a basket of everyday items costing £100 last year will now cost £102.10. For those on fixed incomes or living in poverty, this increase may be particularly burdensome.