Inflation hits highest level in 30 years as food prices rise
Some vulnerable people could be forced to choose between heating or food
Last updated 27th May 2022
Britain's rate of inflation has hit its highest level for nearly 30 years as living costs increase, according to official figures.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation jumped from 5.1% in November to 5.4% in December.
It's the highest the country has seen since March 1992, when it stood at 7.1%.
Experts said inflation was pushed higher by food and non-alcoholic drinks prices last month.
Meanwhile, costs are also rising for restaurants and hotels, furniture and household goods, as well as clothing and footwear.
ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner said: "Food prices again grew strongly while increases in furniture and clothing also pushed up annual inflation.
"These large rises were slightly offset by petrol prices, which, despite being at record levels were stable this month, but rose this time last year."
Household finances are being squeezed across the board as gas and electricity tariffs have also seen staggering rises and supply chain problems are pushing up costs across the economy.
The figures come amid mounting pressure on the Government to help with rises in gas and electricity bills, with fears that many vulnerable people are choosing between heating their homes and buying food.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: "I understand the pressures people are facing with the cost of living and we will continue to listen to people's concerns, as we have done throughout the pandemic."
The ONS also found that the Retail Prices Index (RPI) measure of inflation soared to its highest level since March 1991- hitting 7.5% last month, up from 7.1% in November.
It said food and drink prices lifted by 4.2% year on year in December, which is the biggest rise since September 2013.
Clothes shops also put up prices by an average 4.2%.
But the biggest hit to consumer pockets continues to be the rises in energy bills after an October increase to the price cap, with experts warning over a leap of more than 50% in these costs when the next revision is due in April.