UK inflation slows to 2.5% in May

The UK’s rate of inflation slowed in May to the weakest level in seven months, official figures have shown.

Falling prices for gas and electricity, compared with the rises one year ago, was the main reason for the reduction in inflation, the ONS said.

Lower food prices, particularly for vegetables and meat, also helped to keep inflation in check.

However, food prices are still rising at 5%, twice the inflation rate.

The cost of air travel rose sharply compared with falls in the same month a year ago.