UK inflation holds at 3% as Middle East instability raises energy price risks

UK inflation remained at 3% in February 2026, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), but rising energy prices linked to Middle East instability are expected to push inflation higher in the coming months. The latest consumer price index (CPI) data shows that falling petrol prices helped offset increases in clothing and household goods, keeping the annual rate unchanged from January. Retail and economic analysts warn that this stability may be temporary. Disruption to global oil and gas su ...