Book Description

The Committee's report examines the work of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of England and the main features of monetary policy for the twelve month period since November 2005. Findings include that the Bank has continued to conduct monetary policy with considerable success and has steered the economy through a difficult period and the prospects for inflation appear to be good. Given the uncertainties surrounding the arguments for or against increases in interest rates, and the importance that the Governor has previously placed on anchoring inflation expectations, it appears that the November increase in interest rates was largely a precautionary measure. Recommendations made include: that the Bank undertake further research on the links between the interest rate and inflation via asset prices, a critical aspect of monetary policy under inflation targeting; and the Chancellor should consider modifying the appointment process of external members of the MPC to increase transparency and to ensure that appointees have relevant expertise in macro and monetary economics.