UK inflation falls to 1.9% in January

he UK's inflation rate, as measured by the consumer prices index, fell to 1.9% in January.

The rate fell below the Bank of England's 2% target for the first time in more than four years.

The fall is likely to underline the Bank of England's message that there is no rush to raise interest rates.

Inflation as measured by the Retail Prices Index rose to 2.8% from 2.7% in December, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

The lower inflation was in large part due to a fall in the cost of recreational and cultural activities, including falling DVD prices and lower entrance fees to attractions.

Discounts on furniture and household goods, and also lower alcohol and tobacco prices, also had an impact, the ONS said.

Prime minister David Cameron tweeted that the figures support the government's economic strategy.

"Today's fall in inflation is more evidence our long term economic plan is working," Mr Cameron tweeted. "We want to ensure a secure future for hard-working people."

Labour said that the fall in inflation would be unlikely to have much of an impact on working people.

"This small fall in the inflation rate is welcome, but with prices still rising much faster than wages the cost-of-living crisis continues," shadow Treasury minister Cathy Jamieson said.