Overall consumer prices rose more slowly in August than in July, the second month in a row the inflation rate declined, Statistics Canada reported. But grocery prices increased 10.8 per cent between August 2021 and last month, the fastest pace since 1981. (The Logic)

Talking point: Volatile gasoline prices are a big factor in the monthly inflation figures, so StatCan also offers a reading of inflation with gas stripped out; that inflation rate was 6.3 per cent in August, the first month since June 2021 that it was lower than the month before. So there are signs that the Bank of Canada’s moves to cool the economy with steep interest-rate hikes are working, as long as you’re looking at things other than a grocery bill. The Liberal government is promising to help the lowest-income Canadians cope, with legislation to boost GST rebates, rent supports and dental care for uninsured children.