U.S. business activity slowed to an 11-month low in March as the war in the Middle East raised prices for energy products and other inputs, a survey showed on Tuesday, reinforcing fears of an acceleration in inflation in the months ahead. The survey from S&P Global also showed a deterioration in sentiment that contributed to the first decline in private-sector employment in just over a year. The findings at face value would suggest persistent labor market weakness, though timely data like weekly claims for unemployment benefits have remained consistent with stable conditions.