Prices rose by more than expected in the year to June, pushing inflation to 3.6%, the highest it has been since January 2024.
Higher prices for food and clothing, air and rail fares – and a lower drop in fuel prices than this time last year – contributed to higher inflation, official figures from the Office for National Statistics show. 
Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “With CPI rising by 3.6% in June, off the back of fuel price changes, the daily inflation headache for businesses should not be underestimated. Inflation continues to be a major external concern for the firms we represent, cited by over half of businesses in our latest survey.
“As the Bank of England Governor acknowledged at our annual conference last month, the labour market impact on inflation needs to be closely monitored. The recent employer NICs increase has significantly weakened business sentiment, and hiring may suffer as a result.
“The Bank of England will need to consider carefully further interest rate cuts before the labour market loosens too much. Firms will be watching that delicate balancing act intently.
“Easing cost pressures on business is a crucial piece of the jigsaw to help control inflation. A clear tax roadmap, which includes national insurance, would give firms the certainty they need to plan their investment. Our Blueprint for Growth, published last month, details other practical policies we believe can drive forward the UK economy.”
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