UK Inflation Rate Holds Steady at 2.2% Despite Rise in Air Fares

UK inflation rate remains unchanged

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has reported that the UK's inflation rate has remained unchanged at 2.2% in December 2023, despite a rise in airfares. This is in line with the Bank of England's target of 2% inflation.

The ONS stated that the rise in airfares was offset by a decrease in the cost of other goods and services, such as clothing and footwear. The ONS also noted that the core inflation rate, which excludes volatile items such as food and energy, remained stable at 2.1%.

Inflation expected to remain stable in 2024

The Bank of England has predicted that inflation will remain stable in 2024, with the core inflation rate expected to average 2.1%. The bank has also stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and will take action if necessary to keep inflation under control.

The UK's inflation rate has been relatively stable in recent years, with the ONS reporting that the annual inflation rate has been between 1.5% and 2.5% since 2016.

However, the rise in airfares is a reminder that inflation can be volatile and that the Bank of England will need to take action if it starts to rise too quickly.