UK October inflation falls to 5%

The rate of Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation in the UK fell slightly to 5% during October, down from a rate of 5.2% the month before. Falls in the price of food, air transport and fuel helped to push the inflation rate lower. Despite the drop, the rate still remains well above the Bank of England's target of 2%. Retail Prices Index (RPI) inflation - which includes mortgage interest payments - also fell to 5.4% from 5.6%. Despite the fall the government said it recognised that inflation remained high. "These are difficult times for households as prices continue to be affected by conditions in the global oil and gas markets," said a Treasury spokesperson. MPs are set to debate a motion later, which urges the government to limit increases in the price of petrol. The government plans to increase fuel duty by 3p a litre in January. Energy costs Food prices were driven down by heavy supermarket discounting and good harvests, according to the Office for National Statistics. Air fares, which are historically very changeable, fell by 6% compared with the previous year. Declan Curry finds out whether inflation is sweet or sour Petrol also fell by 0.5p a litre, reflecting falls in the price of crude oil due to the weakening global economy. Upward pressure on prices came from increases in the cost of clothing, electricity and gas. Price rises from all the major energy suppliers have increased domestic fuel bills and are also expected to push up November's inflation figures. However, the Bank of England has said it expects the rate of inflation to drop in 2012 as prices fall back and the impact of the government's increase in VAT is no longer felt.