Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Option A : As long as the sample wasrepresentative, the figures should be accurate. This point does not weaken the conclusion.
Option B Correct : This statement suggests that the 1.2 percent inflation rate is an unusual occurrence in recent years. Especially because the dip below the stable 4 percent ratewas temporary, this unusual occurrence cannot be used as the basis for predicting a trend.
Option C : This statement explains oneprocess bywhich inflation increases and tends to support the conclusion that inflation will continue to rise.
Option D : This information implies, for example, that two years ago, the inflation rate was higher than 1.2 percent. This raises thepossibility (without stating it) that last year and theyear preceding mark a trend of declining inflation (and that the current year's 4 percent is an aberration).
However, if the inflation rate two years ago was only slightly higher than 1.2 percent (for example, 1.25 percent), then it would be difficult to regard these two numbers as signaling a trend of declining inflation. Wed not have enough information here to regard this as a significant weakener. The information is sufficient to justify a little doubt about the argument's conclusion—but not at all specific enough to undermine the argument's conclusion as much as does answer choice (B).
Option E : The failure of government intervention to affect the rate of inflation could be seen to support, not weaken, the conclusion.
The correct answer is B.