These are set to ensure a broad balance between overall supply and demand over the medium term (the next two years or so) thus keeping the economy on a path consistent with price stability.

ECONOMIST: Economics focus

"Overall, last year saw an even mix of monthly rises and falls as prices lacked any real direction as both demand and supply pressures remained largely unchanged during 2012, " said Martin Ellis, housing economist at the Halifax.

BBC: House prices will change little in 2013, Halifax says