Inflation in the United Kingdom rose to a near 18-month high in June as food prices surged for the third month running, official figures showed Wednesday. Economists said the unexpected increase could prompt the Bank of England to lower interest rates slower than anticipated.

The Office for National Statistics said consumer prices rose by an annual rate of 3.6% in June, up from 3.4% in May. That was the highest rate since January 2024.

The statistics agency said higher food prices was largely behind the increase. Fuel and transport costs also contributed.

Though inflation remains above the Bank of England’s target rate of 2%, most economists think the central bank will cut interest rates again at its next meeting Aug. 7. The current rate is 4.25%. — Associated Press