This publication is a summary of monthly reports compiled by the Bank of England’s Agents between late November 2015 and late February 2016. It generally makes comparisons with activity and prices a year earlier.
- Annual rates of activity growth had eased, in part reflecting slowing world growth and an associated increase in uncertainty. Consumer spending growth had, however, remained resilient.
- Bank credit availability had remained above normal for most contacts, although competition between lenders was reported to be stabilising after a period of intensification. Capital market financing conditions had become less favourable given recent market volatility.
- Growth in total labour costs had remained modest, with low inflation having a slightly moderating effect on pay awards. Companies often reported that competitive pressures were restraining price inflation.
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Agents' scores