 The ECB's main remit is controlling inflation |
Eurozone inflation has unexpectedly slowed during November, easing concerns that high oil prices were pushing up the cost of living. Consumer prices in the 12 nations using the euro fell by 0.3% in November from October, the statistical office said.
That cut the annual rate of inflation to 2.3%, down from 2.5% from October.
The European Central Bank (ECB) raised interest rates for the first time in five years earlier this month, ignoring criticism that it may slow the economy.
"Eurozone politicians will be increasingly concerned about the ECB's motives for higher rates when inflation is coming back on target," said Bear Stearns economist David Brown.
Many analysts predict that eurozone inflation is on its way down and that the annual rate could hit 2% - the ECB's target - in December.
Bear Stearns' Brown reckons that lower oil prices will help push inflation below 2% for much of 2006.
One-Minute World News 
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