UK retail sales slump as soaring energy prices hit households

CBI's April figures show worst cost of living squeeze since 1950s is starting to affect consumer spending

Retail sales in the UK have slumped in April as hard-pressed households reined in their spending amid the soaring cost of living, according to an industry snapshot.

The figures from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) found retailers experienced a rapid decline in sales volumes, in a month when consumers faced soaring gas and electricity bills, record fuel prices and a sharp increase in the cost of the weekly shop.