UK Inflation Surges to 3.1% Amid Middle East Conflict

UK inflation rose by 3.1% in the 12 months to July 2026, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures published on August 19.

The increase of 0.3% from June's rate of 2.6% is a concern for households struggling with rising bills due to ongoing cost of living pressures in the Middle East.

Core inflation remained unchanged at 2.6%, while goods annual rates increased from 1.7% to 2.2% and services rates eased from 3.6% to 3.4%.