London News: Bank of England Slashes Key Interest Rate to 3.75% Amid Falling Inflation

Top news emerged from London today as the Bank of England Rate Cut was officially announced, marking a significant move by the central bank. The Bank of England has cut its key interest rate to 3.75%, a reduction of 0.25 percentage points. This UK interest rate decision was made on December 18, 2025, during the final Monetary Policy Committee meeting of the year. This Bank of England Rate Cut aims to provide a boost to the UK economy and offer some relief to borrowers. The narrative behind this cut is underpinned by easing inflation and concerns about a weakening job market, signaling a shift in monetary policy. The immediate impact of the Bank of England Rate Cut is already being felt.

Falling Inflation Fuels Bank of England Rate Cut

Inflation has been a major concern for the UK economy. However, recent data indicates that falling inflation UK is now contributing to the rationale behind monetary easing. Latest figures revealed UK inflation fell to 3.2% in November 2025, a welcome drop from 3.6% in October and better than economists’ forecasts. While inflation remains above the Bank of England’s 2% target, this downward trend is encouraging and played a crucial role in the decision for this Bank of England Rate Cut. Food prices and Black Friday discounts were key factors driving this decrease, suggesting that price pressures are abating. This easing of inflation is a vital step toward economic stability, enabling the Bank to consider lowering borrowing costs, hence the Bank of England Rate Cut.

Economic Headwinds and the Case for a Bank of England Rate Cut

The UK economy continues to face significant challenges, with clear signs of a weakening job market. The unemployment rate has increased, reaching 5.1% in the three months to October 2025, its highest level since early 2021. Furthermore, economic growth has been sluggish, with GDP contracting by 0.1% in October. These economic growth challenges strongly support a less restrictive monetary policy, making the Bank of England Rate Cut a logical step. The Bank of England closely monitors these economic conditions, which heavily influence decisions on the Bank of England interest rate. Subdued growth and rising unemployment provide a compelling argument for further cuts.

The Monetary Policy Committee’s Close Vote on the Bank of England Rate Cut

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) reached a decision on the Bank of England Rate Cut through a narrow 5-4 vote. Five members supported the rate reduction, while four members voted to keep rates unchanged at 4%. Governor Andrew Bailey was among those who voted for the cut, joined by Sarah Breeden, Swati Dhingra, Dave Ramsden, and Alan Taylor. These members believed that inflation risks were receding sufficiently to justify a Bank of England Rate Cut. The dissenting four, including Megan Greene and Clare Lombardelli, advocated for holding rates steady, citing persistent concerns about inflation. This split vote highlights the ongoing debate within the committee and suggests that future Monetary Policy Committee votes will be closely scrutinized.

Implications of the Bank of England Rate Cut for Borrowers and Savers

This latest Bank of England Rate Cut has significant implications for both borrowers and savers. It marks the sixth reduction in the Bank Rate since August 2024, bringing it down from 5.25% to 3.75%. This trend is generally positive for those with variable-rate mortgages, as their monthly payments are expected to decrease. New fixed-rate mortgage deals may also become slightly more affordable, although fixed rates have likely already factored in some expectations of a Bank of England Rate Cut. Conversely, savers might see their returns on easy-access accounts decline. This cut, bringing the Bank Rate to its lowest level since February 2023, is intended to stimulate spending and support economic growth. This developing story is vital for managing household finances and business debt, with the impact on borrowers being a key consideration.

Future Policy Path Remains Uncertain Despite Bank of England Rate Cut

Looking ahead, the Bank anticipates a gradual downward path for interest rates, but future decisions regarding further cuts are now a “closer call,” indicating a degree of caution. The MPC will meticulously monitor incoming economic data. Inflation is projected to fall more rapidly, potentially approaching the 2% target in early 2026. However, the sustainability of this disinflationary trend is paramount. Lingering concerns about services inflation and wage growth persist, leading some MPC members to suggest they may be nearing the end of the current cutting cycle. The market will keenly observe the Bank’s subsequent actions, as policymakers require more evidence of sustained disinflation before committing to further reductions following this Bank of England Rate Cut.

Conclusion on the Bank of England Rate Cut

The Bank of England’s decision to implement a Bank of England Rate Cut, lowering interest rates to 3.75%, represents a significant development. This move reflects tangible progress on inflation and acknowledges prevailing economic weaknesses. The narrow voting margin underscores the continued uncertainty surrounding the economic outlook. This latest Bank of England Rate Cut is part of a broader monetary easing cycle aimed at bolstering the UK’s economic recovery. The narrative continues as policymakers strive to balance the imperative for growth with the need to maintain price stability, making the UK interest rate decision a constant focus.