Inflation figures have started to creep up again, caused partly by increasing energy costs.

UK inflation jumped to 2.2% in May 2006, from 2% the previous month. Recent increase in household gas and electricty prices have not helped.

The headline RPI inflation index that includes mortgage interest payments jumped from 2.6% to 3%.

Another factor contributing to the increase was a jump in food prices, largely a result of more expensive vegatables.

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