Inflation rate up

The inflation rate as measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) jumped to 2.7% in October, up from 2.2% the month before.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the increase was fuelled by education costs, largely because of a sharp rise in university tuition fees.

Food prices also rose over the month, with price rises seen in some fresh food, including grapes and bananas.

The Retail Prices Index (RPI) measure of inflation rose to 3.2% from 2.6%.

University fees rose by 19.1% after the cap on charges was lifted by the government to £9,000 from £3,375.

Food price inflation increased after record wet weather affected crop yields, which the ONS said had pushed up vegetable prices.

September's CPI inflation figure had been the lowest for almost three years, and was significant as it is the month on which rises in many benefits is based.