Private school fees hike and rising air fares blamed for unexpected hike
Inflation rose to 3% in January, the highest level in 10 months, driven by VAT on private school fees, higher food prices, and air fares not decreasing as usual. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlighted increased costs for meat, bread, and cereals, as well as the timing of Christmas and New Year flights affecting air fares. Treasury minister Grant Fitzner called the rise 'sharp,' and policing minister Dame Diana Johnson acknowledged the challenge in meeting the 2% target, citing global energy prices and economic stagnation. Despite wage growth averaging an extra £1,000 annually, Johnson emphasized the ongoing struggles for many families.
