12/11/2001

Output prices indicate further fall in interest rates

Interest rates could be heading for a cut as figures reveal that UK output prices have fallen by the biggest level since records began.

The cost of goods leaving UK factories during October has fallen by 0.6 per cent compared to the same time last year. The drop can be attributed to cheaper crude oil prices, which will enable the manufacturing sector to pass on savings made in energy costs to consumers, potentially paving the way for an easing of interest rates.

Monday’s news spearheads a week in which a variety of key reports will be released, including retail price inflation and retail sales. It is thought that both figures will register a fall, as adverse economic conditions close in, but that the level of slowdown will give no immediate cause for concern.

In addition, research body Oxford Economic Forecasting has defied negative predictions by outlining only a one in six chance of a possible nationwide recession kicking in over the next twelve months. (CL)

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07 March 2002
UK interest rates remain unchanged
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