Rates hold only delaying inevitable cut say manufacturers

Britain’s manufacturers reluctantly accepted today’s decision to leave interest rates on hold in the face of worries about inflation but warned that another cut in interest rates is only a matter of time amid further signs of a weakening UK economy.

Whilst stark rises in oil and commodity prices have given businesses as well as the Bank cause for concern, EEF believes that mounting threats to business and consumer confidence mean that interest rates will almost certainly need to be cut again in June.

Commenting, EEF Chief Economist, Steve Radley, said:

"The economy has been through a series of shocks since the credit crisis hit last summer and the Bank has been right so far in responding with a measured approach on rates. However, despite concerns on inflation, further cuts to interest rates are needed to prevent the economy from drifting towards recession."

ENDS



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