The cost of living hit a fresh 30-year high last month as energy, fuel and food prices continued to soar and retailers reined in seasonal discounts.
Prices surged by 5.5% in the 12 months to January, up from 5.4% in December, increasing the squeeze on household budgets.
Inflation is now rising faster than wages and is expected to climb above 7% this year.
The government said it was taking action but Labour urged it to do more.
Inflation is the rate at which prices rise. If the cost of a bottle of milk was £1 and then rises by 5p, milk inflation is 5%.
Prices surged by 5.5% in the 12 months to January, up from 5.4% in December, increasing the squeeze on household budgets.
Inflation is now rising faster than wages and is expected to climb above 7% this year.
The government said it was taking action but Labour urged it to do more.
Inflation is the rate at which prices rise. If the cost of a bottle of milk was £1 and then rises by 5p, milk inflation is 5%.