Ukraine war and China lockdowns drive fastest UK price rises in years

Inflation on toys, furniture and clothing rose to 2.2% last month, the highest rate for 15 years

The cost of household goods such as toys, furniture and clothing is rising by the fastest rate in more than 15 years as the impact of the war in Ukraine combines with Covid lockdowns in China.

Non-food inflation accelerated to 2.2% in April, up from 1.5% in March, according to the latest shop price index from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and market research group NielsenIQ, the highest rate since the monitor began in 2006.