Food and drink prices have accelerated for the fifth month in a row, despite the fact that UK inflation remained unchanged last month, new official figures show.

The rate of food and drink inflation rose to more than 5% in August, whereas the rate of Consumer Prices Index (CPI) was 3.8% in August, the same as July, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has confirmed.

The 3.8% CPI was expected by most economists for the month, and it means overall inflation remains higher than the UK’s 2% target rate.

Airfares coming down after a spike the previous month helped offset petrol and diesel prices rising in August, the ONS said.

Restaurants and hotels also but upward pressure on the overall rate as demand for meals out and overnight stays stayed high amid a string of popular concerts arou

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