Inflation has fallen to 2.3% in April, down from 3.2% in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.
This is largely due to the easing of pandemic restrictions and the impact of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme last year, which saw restaurants offering discounted meals to boost the economy.
However, despite this decrease, inflation still remains above the Bank of England’s target of 2%.
In light of the upcoming election, the housing market may see a slowdown in property sales, according to property expert Richard Donnell.
Buyers who are close to agreeing a sale may try to push through before the election, while those who are earlier in the process may delay decisions until after the election is over.
However, Donnell notes that this election may not have as much impact as previous ones, as there is not a significant divide in policy between the two main parties.
Severn Trent water company has reported a 20% increase in profits last year, despite being responsible for a third more sewage spills.
The company has proposed a 35.7% increase in bills over the next five years, which has caused some concerns among consumers.
Meanwhile, BT has been fined £2.8m by the industry watchdog for failing to provide clear and simple contract information to over a million customers before they signed up.
This has caused an increase in contactless card fraud, with £41.5m lost last year, up from £34.9m in 2022.
As the parties gear up for the election, their plans for taxes, pensions, and childcare will be in the spotlight. While the Conservatives and Labour have both shared their proposed policies, it remains to be seen what changes could come with a new government.
