UK inflation falls but Iran war fears fuel warnings of summer surge

WorldBusiness & Finance
20 May 2026 • 2:41 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

UK inflation falls but Iran war fears fuel warnings of summer surge

  • UK annual consumer price inflation decreased to 2.8 per cent in April from 3.3 per cent in March, marking the first fall this year.
  • This decline is largely attributed to government measures that temporarily lowered household energy costs.
  • Economists warn that this drop is likely a temporary reprieve, forecasting inflation could surge to 4 per cent or even 5 per cent by summer.
  • The anticipated rise is linked to the full effects of the Iran war, which is expected to drive up fuel and food prices.
  • Chancellor Rachel Reeves acknowledged the impact of the war and defended the government's economic plan, saying that it aims to maintain stability.

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