inflation unchanged during november

Consumer price inflation was unchanged over November, according to official figures, although it remains above target and could rise again in the coming months.

inflation unchanged during november
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Data published by the Office for National Statistics showed the consumer prices index (CPI) standing at 2.7% during November, the same as was seen in October.

Despite the lack of movement, CPI inflation experienced upward pressure from food and non-alcoholic beverages, mainly from bread, cereals and vegetables, and housing and household services, particularly domestic gas and electricity.

This was offset by downward pressure coming from motor fuels and the furniture, household equipment and maintenance sub-sector.

Samuel Tombs, UK economist at Capital Economics, said: "November’s unchanged above-target UK CPI inflation rate means that consumers’ spending power is being tightly squeezed in the run-up to Christmas."

IHS Global Insight chief UK and European economist Howard Archer added: "It still looks very possible that increased energy tariffs and higher food prices could push consumer price inflation up to 3% early in 2013 and keep it there for a while. Further utility price hikes will kick in during December and January."

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