Fuel prices saw their largest increase for over three years, the ONS' chief economist said.

Fuel prices saw their largest increase for over three years, the ONS' chief economist said.

Government data showed the inflation figure — which strips out prices of fresh food — was in line with the 1.8% expected by economists polled by Reuters.

ONS says sales up by 0.7% in March, spurred by big rise in fuel purchases and sunny weather helping retailers