11/12/2001

UK inflation drops to all time low

Inflation in the UK fell sharply last month according to the most recent figures released by the Office for National Statistics.

The rate of inflation fell by 0.4 per cent in November taking the annual inflation rate down from 2.3 per cent in October to 1.8 per cent in November.

Downward pressures in the economy contributing to the fall in inflation were motoring – a 4 pence fall in petrol prices, housing – a fall of 0.24 per cent in the mortgage rate, and a drop in the prices of seasonal food.

Other smaller downward effects on the UK economy included clothing, footware, and alcoholic drinks.

Analysts believe that the slowdown in the world economy, fierce price competition, could mean that the UK will see yet further base rate cuts.

The inflation rate has hit the lowest rate recorded since the current system of calculating the Retail price index was started in 1975.

Inflation is now well below the Government target of 2.5 per cent per year. (SP)

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