UK inflation tumbled to lowest level in four years in April, says ONS

Coronavirus lockdown and consequent oil price collapse send rate plummeting

• What will Bank governor say to chancellor about inflation drop?

Inflation in Britain tumbled to 0.8% in April, its lowest level in four years, as the coronavirus lockdown sent petrol prices crashing and cut the cost of items such as clothing and secondhand cars.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said a cap on gas and electricity prices by the UK regulator also depressed average prices, which in March were rising at the annual rate of 1.5%.

Related: UK inflation tumbles to 0.8% amid Covid-19 discounting and cheaper energy - business live