CONSUMER Price inflation unexpectedly rose to 2.6% in July, the first rise in four months, the Office for National Statistics said.

The 0.2% spike in the cost of living was blamed on higher costs for airfare, clothing and footwear. Many experts had expected inflation to continue famming back towards the 2% target set by the government.

RPI inflation, which includes housing costs, was also ahead at 3.2% from 2.8% in June.

The surprise increase could also limit the room of manoeuvre on the part of the Bank of En......for the full story register now for free or login below...