Surprise fall in UK inflation to 2.5% eases pressure on Rachel Reeves
Guardian7 days
UK: Inflation Falls to 2.5% in December
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Above: Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Prime Minister Keir Starmer look on as Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves delivers her keynote speech during the Labour Party Conference 2024 at ACC Liverpool on Sept. 23, 2024 in Liverpool, England. Image copyright: Christopher Furlong/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
The UK Consumer Price Index (CPI) decreased to 2.5% in December 2024 from 2.6% the month prior, driven by falling hotel prices and slower increases in tobacco costs, though remaining above the Bank of England's 2% target.
Core inflation, which excludes volatile items like energy, food, alcohol, and tobacco, fell from 3.5% to 3.2%, while services inflation dropped from 5.0% to 4.4%.
The Spin
Left narrative
Falling inflation offers relief to both the government and everyday households while bolstering market confidence. Despite recent pressure, the data shows Chancellor Rachel Reeves' measured fiscal strategy and support for working families are steps toward sustainable prosperity. However, stagflation remains a risk if inflationary pressures resurface alongside slow growth. Vigilance is vital — Labour must balance stimulus with measures to ensure economic stability.
Right narrative
While Labour may celebrate a modest dip in inflation, this temporary reprieve cannot mask the deeper issues in their economic policy. Reeves’ tax hikes, including the £25B increase in employer National Insurance, are set to push prices higher and strain businesses, risking another cost-of-living crisis. With inflation likely to rise above 3% and growth stagnating, Labour’s approach risks entrenching stagflation and eroding public confidence.
