Business

Total UK government debt hits £3tn for first time while inflation jumps to highest in nearly a year – business live

The Guardian Business · 21 October 2026 at 10:16

Total UK government debt hits £3tn for first time while inflation jumps to highest in nearly a year – business live

Petrol and diesel costs rise the most in four years Good morning, and welcome to our rolling coverage of business, the financial markets and the world economy.

UK inflation has accelerated more than expected to 3.5% as the cost of motor fuels surged at the fastest rate in four years, with diesel topping £2 a litre this month.

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Total UK government debt hits £3tn for first time while inflation jumps to highest in nearly a year – business live

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