London CNN —Consumer prices in the United Kingdom jumped by 10.4% in February compared with a year ago, as food inflation hit its highest level in more than 45 years and restaurants charged more for alcohol, official data showed Wednesday. Food inflation hit a new record high, with prices rising 18.2% through the year to February, up from 16.8% in January. The ONS said soaring food prices were partly caused by shortages of some salad and vegetable items, which led to rationing by supermarkets. Inflation had been falling since hitting a 41-year high of 11.1% in October, largely driven by the lower cost of motor fuels. Analysts say the surprise increase in prices makes it more likely the Bank of England will hike interest rates again when it meets Thursday.

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