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Bank of England makes big interest rate decision ahead of Budget

Rachel Reeves refuses to rule out hiking income tax, VAT or National Insurance in Budget
  • The Bank of England has maintained interest rates at 4 per cent for the second consecutive time.
  • The Monetary Policy Committee voted by a narrow margin of five to four to keep the rate unchanged.
  • This decision was made despite policymakers indicating that inflation has peaked at 3.8 per cent in September; the Bank expects inflation to gradually decrease and reach its 2 per cent target rate by 2027.
  • Governor Andrew Bailey stated that while rates are on a gradual downward path, they need assurance that inflation is on track before further cuts.
  • Business confidence remains weak, with companies delaying investment plans due to uncertainty, including ahead of the autumn Budget.
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