Increase in air fares is an influence
Retail price index (RPI) inflation rose to 2.6 per cent in April, up from 2.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.
The main upward contribution came from vegetables, with bread, beef, poultry and soft drinks also contributing. However, these were partially offset by downward contributions from milk and fresh fruit.
Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation, the Government's target measure, increased from 1.8 per cent to 2 per cent, in line with the Bank of England's target figure.
The biggest influence was the increase in air fares - this year they rose, compared with a fall last year. Gas and electricity prices were also up.
The figures strengthen expectations that the Bank of England is more likely to increase interest rates than lower them.
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