Inflation figures 'concerning' says Highland MP after UK rate remains unchanged

Higher than expected UK inflation figures are "concerning", a Highland MP has said.

The UK's latest inflation rate in the year to September remained unchanged at 6.7 per cent, according to official figures released on Wednesday.

The news came as a surprise to some economists, who had been predicting the rate might drop to 6.6 per cent or 6.5 per cent.

But the static rate came amid a rise in petrol and diesel prices in recent weeks and increasing global uncertainty as a result of the war between Israel and Hamas.

Reacting on Twitter to news that prices are still rising at the same rate as this time last month, Drew Hendry, the MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, said: "Today's UK inflation figures are concerning. Set to top major economies in 2024. Escalating food, energy, rent and mortgage expenses are punishing family budgets.

"The Scottish Government is taking action to help people, including the council tax freeze, while Tories and Labour offer nothing."

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