Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news

Bank of England urged to slow or halt bond-selling to slash UK borrowing costs

The Guardian view on the Bank of England’s £120bn bill: power without accountability

There’s only a 20% chance that the Bank of England raises interest rates at noon today, according to the money markets.

A hold – maintaining Bank rate at 3.75% – is an 80% shot.

Our primary concerns are rising inflation, higher mortgage interest costs and a weak employment market. These worries will only be compounded if they are accompanied by tax increases.