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UK inflation hits 17-month high
19.05.2010 13:16 "Agro Perspectiva" (Kyiv) —
UK inflation accelerated again in April to hit its highest rate in 17 months, official figures show.
On the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) measure, inflation hit 3.7% well above the target of 2% and the highest rate since November 2008.
On the Retail Prices Index (RPI) measure, which includes housing costs, inflation was up to 5.3% its highest rate in 19 years.
The RPI measure is commonly used to decide pay rises or pension payments.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said food prices in particular had seen sharp rises.
The cost of food rose by 2.6%, the ONS said, thanks largely to rising transport costs over the last 12 months.
Fuel costs have increased by more than 25% in that time, the ONS said.
Last months disruption caused by volcanic ash had little impact on prices, however.
Higher duty on alcohol and cigarettes introduced in Aprils Budget added to inflation in April, the ONS added, and clothes prices also rose.
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