Takeaway coffee and fitness classes return to UK inflation data as lockdown eases

By David Milliken Load Error LONDON (Reuters) - Haircuts, holidays and a pint at the pub remain off limits but prices for takeaway coffees, muffins and fitness classes have returned to Britain's inflation data, giving a picture of how the coronavirus lockdown is easing. With more cafes offering takeaway sales, statisticians were once again able to collect prices for slices of cake, muffins, tea and coffee to go. In other signs of life returning to normal, Britain's Office for National Statistics was back to checking hourly rates of plumbers, electricians and decorators, as well as the cost of an annual booster injection for a medium-sized dog. A fall in the cost of toys and games - after they spiked in April due to demand from families cooped up at home - also lowered inflation last month.